Steelers select a game changer in former GM's latest mock draft
As we inch ever closer to round one of the NFL Draft on April 27th, the mock drafts are seemingly coming out of the woodwork. The latest comes from ESPN Analyst and former NFL GM, Mike Tannenbaum. Groupthink is something that happens far too often during the draft cycle, so a fresh set of eyes […]
As we inch ever closer to round one of the NFL Draft on April 27th, the mock drafts are seemingly coming out of the woodwork.
The latest comes from ESPN Analyst and former NFL GM, Mike Tannenbaum.
Groupthink is something that happens far too often during the draft cycle, so a fresh set of eyes or in this case, words are always good, especially when it comes from a former NFL decision-maker.
With the 17th pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, Mike Tannenbaum has the Pittsburgh Steelers selecting:
Devon Witherspoon, Corner, Illinois
Here is Tannenbaum's blurb on Witherspoon to the Steelers:
"The Steelers allowed the fourth-highest yards per pass attempt (7.5) and tied for the second-most touchdowns passes against (29) in 2022. Cam Sutton has been replaced with Patrick Peterson, but Pittsburgh still needs a young cornerback. I love Witherspoon's fit in the Steelers' scheme; he is tough, competitive and an effective tackler. And among FBS qualified defenders, Witherspoon allowed the second-fewest yards per pass attempt (3.3). I consider him the most physical cornerback in this year's draft, too."
I can't think of a corner that embodies the Pittsburgh playstyle more than Witherspoon when it comes to this class.
Fiesty, competitive and physical, he's the modern-day version of Steelers legend Mel Blount.
But don't think he's a slouch in coverage just because he mauls players in the open field, no, no, Witherspoon is a cover corner also.
There are only two issues I see with this selection, and one of the isn't because of Witherspoon.
First off, there's a good chance Witherspoon is long gone by 17, as he currently sits eighth on the consensus board.
There is also a size factor to consider with Witherspoon. Smaller at a confirmed 5'11 and 180 pounds, Witherspoon plays bigger than his size and backs down to no man, but durability may be a concern for teams.
And while Pittsburgh hasn't drafted a first-round corner since Artie Burns, they tend to covet length at the position, if not in height than in wingspan.
All that being said, this is a no-brainer when it comes to selecting Witherspoon.
The mentality that Pittsburgh Steelers play defense with is something often innate, meaning only certain guys can walk into that locker room and onto that field and play with the intensity and passion required of a Pittsburgh Steeler.
Witherspoon was born with that fire.
Let's hope Tannenbaum is right on this one.
