Mock Draft for Crimson Tide prospects who fit the Pittsburgh Steelers

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Pittsburgh Steelers
(Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)

Since the Pittsburgh Steelers original pick belongs to the Dolphins at 18, it’s fair to say the Steelers have already selected an Alabama player in this draft. Of course, in reality, the Steelers will now be waiting until the 49th pick to make a selection. While Pittsburgh will miss out on the likes of Tua Tagovailoa, Jerry Jeudy, and Henry Ruggs III to fill its offensive needs, there are still plenty of options from Saban’s football factory.

Mel Kiper may have tied one former Alabama quarterback to the Steelers, but in this simulation, Oklahoma QB Jalen Hurts was not available at 49. The Los Angeles Chargers took him at 37 after passing on a quarterback in round one. This left out the controversial decision to select yet another heir-apparent to Ben Roethlisberger as no other quarterbacks are available to fit the value here.

Ironically the 48th and 50th picks were both Alabama selections, as the New York Jets selected Terrell Lewis at 48 and the Chicago Bears selected Trevon Diggs at 50. The Lewis pick burns a bit, as he’d make for an excellent depth option for the Steelers’ already stacked pass rush. While it may not have been the biggest need, the Steelers are more successful when it selects the best player available over need.

As for the selection for Pittsburgh, selecting Florida State running back at No. 49 is a luxury option. The Steelers are in need of offensive playmakers to make a championship push before Roethlisberger’s retirement. Akers is a versatile back who displays an excellent balance of power and agility with playmaker speed.

At No. 102, there were no available Alabama players to fit the value of the pick. Oregon’s Shane Lemieux is a big, nasty guard who could contribute early in relief of the recently retired Ramon Foster.