Steelers Morning Huddle 4/25/14

Credit: Sam Sharpe-USA TODAY Sports

After what has been a long, slow process to the draft since the start of free agency, there was some excitement this week as the NFL released its 2014 regular season schedule. That gives something for bloggers from every team something to write about for another two weeks until the draft will finally be here. Let’s recap on the recent Pittsburgh Steelers news and events.

2014 NFL Schedule Releases

Like I said, 2014 NFL schedule was released on NFL.com on Wednesday. As we have known for a while now who the Steelers opponents would be, and what a relief it was to see some of the teams on that list compared to the likes of the Patriots and Packers last year. On paper, it seemed like an easy route to the playoffs. The schedule only reassured that. The Steelers play some of their easiest opponents away, which leaves room for harder opponents at home. The Steelers play the Jaguars, Titans, Jets and Falcons away, all teams who failed to make the playoffs last year. The only non-AFC North team the Steelers play that will be worry Steelers fans is at Carolina, which should make for a really good game.

Then the Steelers play the Colts, Saints, and Chiefs at home which cause a threat, then the Bucs and Texans, who both will be picking in the top 10 in this years draft. Obviously, the Steelers will also be playing the AFC North twice each, one at home and one away, all should be good games and winnable. It seems like the Steelers got off pretty easy schedule wise this coming season, and lord did they need it. But on paper is not what it seems in the NFL.

Darqueze Dennard a Steeler?

Scott Brown from ESPN.com states NFL Analysts Mel Kiper Jr. commented on how CB Darqueze Dennard has the looks of a Steeler all over him. He goes on to talk about how the only reason he doesn’t have Dennard going to the Steelers in his recent mock draft is because he has them going two picks earlier to the Rams. Dennard shouldn’t be the only CB the Steelers would consider taking at #15, as Justin Gilbert very well could win that battle if both are there when the Steelers make their selection. Kiper goes on to comment how Gilbert isn’t reliable in run support, something Steelers defensive backs must learn before anything else. If Gilbert is gone and Dennard is there, he is still a great pick. If both are there, I would say prefer Gilbert, but if Dennard is their guy, I put my total trust that the Steelers made the right selection.

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