Granted, I’ll admit that Jones’ medical history and poor Pro Day workout make the move a bit of a calculated risk.  But I believe that the selection itself was a smart gamble, and Jarvis was a terror off of the edge during his collegiate career.  As I stated before, the Steelers needed help at outside linebacker, and Jones could very well emerge into yet another fantastic pass-rusher for the “Black and Gold.”

Now that Day 2 of the draft is upon us, I thought that I would discuss my thoughts on what Rounds 2 and 3 have to offer for Pittsburgh’s brass.  Thankfully for Colbert & Co., a large amount of talented players at positions of need will still available for them to choose from in Rounds 2 and 3 this evening.

Potential Round 2 (#48 overall) Selections

Inside Linebackers

Arthur Brown (Kansas State), Sio Moore (Connecticut), Kevin Minter (Louisiana State)

Brown would be a solid 2nd Round pick for the Steelers. Mandatory Credit: Peter G. Aiken-USA TODAY Sports

With only one inside linebacker selected in the 1st round (Alec Ogletree), the Steelers could be primed to fill a dire need with a talented player at #48 overall.  I actually mocked Arthur Brown to Pittsburgh a couple of weeks ago (at #25 overall after a projected trade), and I believe that he would be a perfect addition to the Steelers’ defense next to Lawrence Timmons.  Although Brown is a bit on the shorter side (6′ 241 lbs.), he is well-built and was tenacious player for Kansas State during his two year stint as a starter.  Brown is a tough defender between the hashes, and he recorded up 201 tackles, 16.0 tackles for loss, and 3 interceptions over the last two seasons combined.

If Kevin Minter slides to #48 overall and Brown is off the board, I would hope that the Steelers would consider him.  The former Bayou Bengal was a “tackling machine” last year as he recorded 130 tackles, 15.0 tackles for loss, and 4.0 sacks in 2012.  The squat-framed, yet athletic linebacker (6′ 246 lbs.) packs a wallop as a tackler, has enough agility to potentially hold his own in pass-coverage, and projects well to develop into an effective strongside-inside linebacker in Pittsburgh’s defense, and he has the tools to be a perfect candidate to take over for Larry Foote once he calls it quits.

If the Steelers elect to take a more versatile prospect than Brown or Minter, they could target Sio Moore (6’1″ 245 lbs.) of Connecticut.  I mocked Moore to Pittsburgh earlier this week, and the Steelers invited the athletic linebacker to Pittsburgh for a private interview earlier in the draft process.  Moore is coming off of a solid 2012 campaign in which he racked up 72 tackles, 8.0 sacks, and 15.5 tackles for loss.  The Huskies took advantage of Sio’s unique skill-set during his career, and they lined him up at inside linebacker, outside linebacker, and even along the line of scrimmage as a pass-rusher.  Dick LeBeau and Keith Butler value versatility, and he could very well be Pittsburgh’s pick in Round 2 or Round 3.

Cornerback/Free Safety

Johnthan Banks (Mississippi State)

While cornerback is not necessarily an immediate need, Colbert & Co. could employ a “B.P.A.” strategy and take a chance on an athletic and versatile defensive back in the form of Johnthan Banks of Mississippi State.

I’m a bit surprised that the 2012 Jim Thorpe award winner’s stock has slipped so much since the 2012 regular season ended.  But teams are apparently concerned with Banks’ speed, and I guess they would prefer to take other cornerbacks before him.  Banks however would be a perfect fit as a zone-scheme cornerback or even a free safety (a position he played as a freshman at Mississippi State) in Pittsburgh’s defense.  Johnthan’s tall frame (6’2″ 185 lbs.), solid ball skills (16 career interceptions), and ability to mix it up in the run-game (125 Tackles the last two seasons) could make him too good to pass up at #48 overall.

Safeties

Phillip Thomas (Fresno State), D.J. Swearinger (South Carolina), Johnathan Cyprien (Florida International)

With Troy Polamalu and Ryan Clark nearing the end of their careers’ and Robert Golden the only depth presently behind them, I believe that Pittsburgh will take a safety at some point in Round 2 or Round 3.

If Phillip Thomas is available at #48 overall, I believe that the Steelers could take the former Fresno State ball-hawk.  Thomas led the FBS-division in interceptions last year with 8, and did so after he spent the entire 2011 season sidelined with a broken leg.  While Phillip is known more for his ability to make plays on balls in the air, he can definitely hold his own against the run and has the type of frame (6’1″ 208 lbs.) and tackling ability (2012: 84 tackles, 12.0 tackles for loss) to possibly switch to strong safety.

I was a bit surprised that Johnathan Cyprien fell out of the 1st Round, especially after many people (including me) had him pegged anywhere from #21 to #32.  Regardless, I’m happy to see that the strong safety is still available and could be a potential selection for the Steelers.  Last season, Cyprien enjoyed a solid 2012 season with the Golden Panthers (93 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, and 4 interceptions), and his stock rose significantly during the offseason period.  Although Cyprien is not as agile as Matt Elam is in pass-coverage, he does possess decent size (6′ 217 lbs.), and would be a solid “in-the-box” type of strong safety.

Although I like Thomas and Cyprien, count me in as somebody who would like to see D.J. Swearinger lacing them up for the “Black and Gold.”  A tenacious hitter, Swearinger would be a solid strong safety in Pittsburgh’s defense, and his ability to tackle (2011: 80 tackles, 2012: 79 tackles) and support the run would make him a valuable chess-piece for Dick LeBeau to utilize.  D.J. made 6 interceptions, forced 4 fumbles, recovered another 2, and started 33 games for the Gamecocks over the course of his collegiate career.  Although he isn’t the biggest (5’10″ 208 lbs.) or fastest safety in this draft class, his nastiness and skill-set are exactly what Pittsburgh’s secondary needs.

Running Backs

Giovani Bernard (North Carolina), Johnathan Franklin (UCLA)

While I believe that Jonathan Dwyer and Isaac Redman are both solid “situational battering rams” and backups, the Steelers could still stand to use a more athletic running back to compliment their big bruisers.  Two running backs in particular come to my mind who could add an extra dimension to Pittsburgh’s offense, Giovani Bernard and Johnathan Franklin.

The Steelers took a particular interest in Franklin, and the organization even invited him to town for a pre-draft interview.  I’ve talked at length about Franklin over the last four months as a potential Steeler draft pick, and he definitely has a number of things going for him at the moment.  Johnathan is coming off of a career year at UCLA, and the running back rushed for 1,734 yards and 15 touchdowns and caught 33 passes for 323 yards and another 2 scores.  Franklin is a decent sized one-cut back (5’10″ 205 lbs.) who can gain the tough yards inside the tackles as well as go outside the hashes and make plays.  Although Franklin is not a “burner” in terms of his raw speed and had some issues with ball security, the Steelers could take a chance on him in Round 2.

While I like Franklin as a potential addition to Pittsburgh’s offense, I would be incredibly happy to see the Steelers take Giovani Bernard on Day 2 of the draft.  Although Bernard only played two seasons at North Carolina, he was a multi-purpose weapon for the Tar Heels.  On the ground, Bernard racked up a combined 2,481 rushing yards and 25 touchdowns over the last two years.  If that wasn’t impressive enough, Giovani was an accomplished pass catcher and recorded 92 grabs for 852 yards and 6 touchdowns during that span.  Heck, Bernard even took 2 punts back for scores last season as well!  If the former Tar Heel’s small frame (5’8″ 202 lbs.) causes teams to pass on him, Pittsburgh’s brass would be wise to step in and acquire him.

Wide Receivers

Keenan Allen (California), Justin Hunter (Tennessee), Robert Woods (Southern California)

I for one am a bit shocked that Keenan Allen, Justin Hunter, and Robert Woods still remain available, but I won’t complain.  In fact, I’m downright stoked that the Steelers might have a shot at drafting one of these three pass-catchers.

I actually projected Justin Hunter to go to the Steelers in Round 1 (at pick #31) in my final mock draft from Thursday, and I believe that a wide receiver like the former Volunteer could really help Pittsburgh’s passing game.  Last season, it was Hunter, not Cordarrelle Patterson, who was Tennessee’s most productive receiver (73 catches, 1,083 yards, 9 touchdowns).  The most amazing part of Hunter’s season was the fact that he did what he did only one year after he sustained an ACL injury.  While some might consider Hunter to be a bit raw and inconsistent, his frame (6’4″ 196 lbs.) and ability to stretch the field would make him a welcome target for Ben Roethlisberger.

Keenan Allen did not do himself any favors with a poor pro day performance, and the PCL injury he sustained last year sure didn’t help his case either.  Nevertheless, the former Golden Bear receiver was one of the Pac-12′s most productive pass-catchers over the last two seasons  (2011: 98 catches, 1,343 yards and 6 touchdowns, 2012: 61 catches, 737 yards, and 6 touchdowns).  Allen can not only play flanker, split end, and in the slot, he has some reliable hands, and is a large target who can make any quarterback happy to look for in the red zone.  While Allen’s raw speed might be an issue for some, he is too talented of a prospect to pass up at #48 overall in my opinion.

Like Allen, Robert Woods was one of the Pac-12′s most productive pass-catchers over the last two seasons.  And just like Allen, Woods’ stock has dropped due to injury concerns (ankle), and his dip in production last season (2011: 111 catches, 1,292 yards, 15 touchdowns to 2012: 76 catches, 846 yards, 11 touchdowns) did not help him either.  Woods however is a receiver who has solid speed, can run crisp routes, and has a good pair of hands.  At 6′ 201 lbs., the former Trojan has a decent sized frame, and definitely has the potential to help Pittsburgh’s receiving corps.

For now though, let’s get on to my final 2013 NFL Mock Draft:

Round 1

1. Kansas City Chiefs: Eric Fisher OT (Central Michigan)

Kansas City’s brass could instantly upgrade their situation at offensive tackle with the former Central Michigan standout.  The large-framed (6’7″ 306 lbs.) blind-side protector was a 1st team All-MAC performer last season, and also possesses some versatility to his overall game.  Although he played most of his collegiate career at left tackle, Eric did start games at right tackle and right guard at the college level.  So even if Fisher doesn’t pan out on the blind-side, Kansas City’s coaching staff could find another place for him along their offensive line.

2. Jacksonville Jaguars: Dion Jordan DE/OLB (Oregon)

Although the Jason Babin signing helped towards the end of the 2012 season, Jacksonville’s brass would be wise to bolster their pass-rush at some point tomorrow.  The Jaguars ranked dead last in the league with a total of 20.0 sacks last fall, and their defense could not create consistent pressure off of the edges.  Last year, Jordan (6’6″ 248 lbs.) put up 44 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, 5.0 sacks, and forced 3 fumbles.  In addition to his ability to rush the passer, Jordan is extremely competent in pass-coverage and playing in space as well. As long as he recovers well from his recent shoulder surgery, the former Duck will be a top 5 pick.

3. Oakland Raiders: Sharrif Floyd DT (Florida)

Tommy Kelly and Desmond Bryant are no longer with the Raiders, so an enormous hole exists at defensive tackle.  Floyd (6’3″ 297 lbs.) has become of the draft’s hottest commodities as of late, and he played both defensive end and defensive tackle at Florida.  Last year, Floyd played his best football last season on the interior as he displayed a surprising combination of agility, power, and quickness for a man his size.  Overall, Sharrif notched 46 tackles, 3.0 sacks, and a team-leading 13.0 tackles for loss during his junior season, and should garner interest from teams who employ 3-4 and 4-3 defensive schemes in Round 1.

4. Philadelphia Eagles: Luke Joeckel OT (Texas A&M)

If the athletic Luke Joeckel falls all the way to #4 for Chip Kelly, I’ll bet he will be do cart-wheels in Philadelphia’s war room.  The Eagles are in desperate need of help at the offensive tackle position, and Joeckel would be a perfect fit in Philadelphia’s up-tempo offense.  The 6’6″ 306 lb. Joeckel was the 2012 Outland Award winner, a 2012 consensus All-American, and a three-year starter for the Aggies (39 Games, 39 Starts).  While the nimble Joeckel is not a “road-grading” type of tackle, his quick feet and sound blocking technique will help him develop into a fantastic blind-side pass-protector for years to come.

5. Detroit Lions: Ezekiel Ansah DE (Brigham Young)

Detroit will likely need some serious help at defensive end position if they want to create any pressure off of the edges in future seasons.  Cliff Avril left for a new deal in Seattle, and Kyle Vanden Bosch was just recently released too.  If Fisher and Joeckel are no longer available, I would have to believe that the Lions would take Ezekiel Ansah.  Despite the fact that Ansah is newer to the game of football, the 6’5″ 271 lb. defensive end had a fine 2012 season as he made 62 tackles, 13.0 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks during his first year as a starter with the Cougars.

6. San Diego Chargers: Lane Johnson OT (Oklahoma)

(Trade w/Cleveland: Swap 1st Round picks (#6 overall) and (#11 overall), San Diego sends 2nd Round pick (#45) to Cleveland to complete deal)

San Diego’s offensive line surrendered 49.0 sacks last year (4th most in the entire league), and the Chargers need to upgrade their situation at offensive tackle.  If Lane Johnson is available at #6 overall, San Diego should definitely try to broker a trade with Cleveland.  The former Sooner (6’6″ 303 lbs.) is an intriguing prospect who played quarterback in high school and at junior college, and spent time at tight end and defensive end in Norman as well.  For the last two years though Johnson has manned both the right (12 starts) and left (11 starts) tackle spots, and has the potential to be a stable pass-protector down the road on the left or the right side.

7. Tennessee Titans: Dee Milliner CB (Alabama)

(Trade w/Arizona: Swap 1st Round picks (#7 overall) and (#10 overall), Tennessee sends 3rd Round pick (#70) to Arizona to complete deal)

The Titans might trade up a few spots just to make sure that San Francisco and Atlanta don’t swoop in ahead of them if they want to go after a cornerback.  Currently, the Titans have issues at in terms of depth at cornerback, and it would likely only cost them a 3rd round pick to ensure that can they acquire the best one of the 2013 draft class.  Milliner (6′ 200 lbs.) had a terrific 2012 season as he logged 22 passes defended over the team’s 14 games, and added 54 tackles and 2 interceptions to his statline during the Crimson Tide’s national championship season.  DeMarcus also is more than willing to mix it up in the run game, and has the size, speed, and man-coverage skills to be a solid starting cornerback.

8. Buffalo Bills: Tavon Austin WR (West Virginia)

I really hope that Buffalo does not consider Ryan Nassib at #8.  I mean, late in Round 1 he would be a good choice, but taking a player of his caliber at #8 overall would be an enormous reach, even if this draft class is not “top heavy.”  If Buffalo opts to pass on Nassib, they could try to upgrade their receiving corps with the shifty Tavon Austin of West Virginia.  Not only did Austin top the 100 catch mark during his junior season, he had an even more productive senior campaign last fall as he recorded 114 grabs for 1,289 yards and 12 touchdowns.  An accomplished ball-carrier as well, Tavon also was effective in the run-game as he rushed for an incredible 643 yards and 3 touchdowns in 2012.

9. New York Jets: Barkevious Mingo OLB (Louisiana State)

2012 1st Round pick Quinton Coples (5.5 sacks) and 2011 1st Round pick Muhammad Wilkerson (5.0 sacks) did a fine job last season as they supplied heat from their 5-technique defensive end spots.  Unfortunately, the Jets lack speed outside of Coples and Wilkerson, and desperately need a pass-rushing threat at outside linebacker.  Sporting a 6’4″ and 241 lb. frame, Mingo possesses a tremendous amount of speed (4.58 40 yard dash) and agility (6.84 3-cone drill) off of the edge which should help him translate well to the professional level.  The biggest issues with Mingo however deal with how raw his skill-set is, as well as his limited production (4.5 sacks and 8.5 tackles for loss) with the Bayou Bengals last season.  Questions aside, Mingo’s athletic ability and upside should make him a lock to go somewhere in the top 15.

10. Arizona Cardinals: D.J. Fluker OT (Alabama)

(Trade w/Arizona: Swap 1st Round picks (#7 overall) and (#10 overall), Tennessee sends 3rd Round pick (#70) to Arizona to complete deal)

Arizona’s offensive line surrendered a League high 58.0 sacks last year, and tackles Bobby Massie and D’Anthony Batiste looked lost at multiple points during the 2012 campaign.  If the Cardinals want to shore up the right tackle position, they could take D.J. Fluker in Round 1.  Fluker started 36 games during his three years with the Crimson Tide, and is one of the more experienced offensive tackles in this year’s draft class.  Keeping Carson Palmer healthy is a high priority, and the addition of a massive 6’5″ 339 lb. road-grader should help to do just that.

11. Cleveland Browns: Star Lotulelei DT/DE (Utah)

(Trade w/San Diego: Swap 1st Round picks (#6 overall) and (#11 overall), San Diego sends 2nd Round pick (#45) to Cleveland to complete deal)

Although the Browns signed Paul Kruger this offseason, their defense could stand to add another pass-rusher as well as a developmental 5-technique defensive end.  If Star Lotulelei is in play for the Browns, especially after a trade, I am sure that they will probably give him a long look. Despite being double-teamed and keyed on for much of the season,  Lotulelei (6’2″ 311 lbs.) was a 1st Team All-Pac-12 performer in 2012 as he amassed 42 tackles, 5.0 sacks, 11.0 tackles for loss, 3 forced fumbles, and 4 fumble recoveries.  If teams shy away from Lotulelei due his heart issue, Cleveland might snatch him up in a “Best Player Available” scenario.

12. Miami Dolphins: Xavier Rhodes CB (Florida State)

Although the Dolphins recently signed Brent Grimes, their defense could still stand to acquire a talented cornerback.  Xavier Rhodes (6’1″ 210 lbs.) was a 1st Team All-ACC cornerback as he racked up 39 tackles and 3 interceptions during the 2012 season as the most talented player in the Seminoles’ defensive backfield.  A team can never have too many effective cornerbacks in today’s N.F.L., and Rhodes is terrific in man-coverage situations because he can use his physical stature to his advantage.

13. New York Jets: Jonathan Cooper OG/C (North Carolina)

The Jets could go in a number of different ways at #13 overall, but it would not shock me in the least if they made Jonathan Cooper their pick.  Now that Brandon Moore is gone, the Jets could instantly upgrade their offensive line with the versatile Cooper (6’2″ 311 lbs.) who might even stand in for some reps as Nick Mangold’s backup at center.  The former Tar Heel was a 4-year starter at North Carolina (48 games), and possesses tremendous agility for an interior offensive lineman.

14. Carolina Panthers: Sheldon Richardson DT (Missouri)

Although the Panthers’ defense improved this past year, issues still exist along the interior of their defensive line.  Carolina’s run defense could be helped by an impact player like 3-technique prospect Sheldon Richardson from Missouri.  After two years at the junior college level, and one year in a non-starter role with the Tigers, the agile and powerful Richardson (6’3″ 295 lbs.) burst on the scene in 2012 when he racked up 75 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, and 4.0 sacks over Missouri’s 11 games.

15. New Orleans Saints: Jarvis Jones OLB (Georgia)

The Saints could stand to acquire a 3-4 pass-rusher this offseason.  New Defensive Coordinator Rob Ryan could be intrigued to take former Georgia outside linebacker Jarvis Jones.  Although Jones’ “spinal stenosis” condition and poor Pro Day workout could scare scouts away, some teams in need of an athletic pass-rusher are sure to be willing to gamble on the former Bulldog.  Last season, Jones (6’2″ 245 lbs.) racked up 24.5 tackles for loss and 14.5 sacks.  At least to me, Jones would be a bargain for the Saints if he falls all the way down to #15 overall.

16. St. Louis Rams: Kenny Vaccaro FS/SS (Texas)

The Rams lost Craig Dahl in March, thus a replacement at the free safety position must be found, and found quickly.  Vaccaro (6’1″ 218 lbs.) was the Longhorns’ leading tackler last year (104) and added 4.0 tackles for loss, forced two fumbles, and made 2 interceptions as well.  A two-and-a-half year starter at Texas (31 Starts, 50 games), Vaccaro played both free and strong safety during his collegiate career, and is also adept at helping with coverage in the slot in “big nickel” packages too.

Round 1

1. Kansas City Chiefs: Luke Joeckel OT (Texas A&M)

Kansas City’s brass could instantly upgrade their “tackle situation” with Texas A&M’s former blind-side protector.  The 6’6″ 306 lb. Joeckel was the 2012 Outland Award winner, a 2012 consensus All-American, and was three-year starter with the Aggies (39 Games, 39 Starts).  While the nimble Joeckel is not a “road-grading” type of tackle, his quick feet and sound blocking technique will help him to be a fantastic blind-side pass-protector for years to come.

2. Jacksonville Jaguars: Eric Fisher OT (Central Michigan)

2009 1st Round pick Eugene Monroe will be a UFA when the 2013 season ends.  If the Jaguars want to have insurance in case their starting left tackle leaves, they could elect to go the “safe route” and take Eric Fisher at #2 overall.  The 6’7″ 306 lb. Fisher was a 1st Team All-MAC performer last season, and also possesses some versatility to his game.  Although he played most of his collegiate career at left tackle, he did start games at right tackle and right guard earlier in his career with the Chippewas.  So even if Fisher doesn’t pan out on the blind-side, Jacksonville’s coaching staff could find another place for him along their porous offensive line. 

3. Oakland Raiders: Sharrif Floyd DT (Florida)

Tommy Kelly and Desmond Bryant are gone, and the Raiders need help at defensive tackle.  Floyd (6’3″ 297 lbs.) has become of the Draft’s hottest commodities as of late, and he played both defensive end and defensive tackle at Florida.  Last year, Floyd played his best football last season on the interior as he displayed a surprising combination of agility, power, and quickness for a man his size.  Overall, Sharrif notched 46 tackles, 3.0 sacks, and a team-leading 13.0 tackles for loss during his junior season, and will garner interest from teams who employ 3-4 and 4-3 defensive schemes in Round 1.

4. Philadelphia Eagles: Dion Jordan DE/OLB (Oregon)

Now that the Eagles are switching to a 3-4 Defense, they would best served to acquire an athletic pass-rusher to team with Connor Barwin and Brandon Graham.  If that is the case, it would lead me to believe that new head coach Chip Kelly has his sights set on one of his former college players in the form of Dion Jordan.  Last year, Jordan put up 44 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, 5.0 sacks, and forced 3 fumbles, and has a unique frame (6’6″ 248 lbs.), and an athletic skill-set (surprisingly in pass-coverage) which could make him an attractive option for the Eagles to target at #4 if he recovers well from his recent shoulder surgery.

5. Detroit Lions: Ezekiel Ansah DE (Brigham Young)

Detroit will likely need some serious help at defensive end position if they wish to create any pressure off of the edge in future seasons.  Cliff Avril left for a new deal in Seattle, and Kyle Vanden Bosch was just recently released as well.  Ezekiel Ansah has turned heads throughout the offseason, and could inevitably find himself in the Top 5 when “Draft Weekend” rolls around this month.  Despite the fact that Ansah is newer to the game of football, the 6’5″ 271 lb. defensive end had a fine 2012 season as he made 62 tackles, 13.0 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks during his first year as a starter with the Cougars.

6. Cleveland Browns: Dee Milliner CB (Alabama)

Because the Browns signed Paul Kruger, Cleveland’s brass should be able to focus on other needs at the top of the Draft.  If Dee Milliner falls to them at #6 overall, I cannot see new defensive coordinator Ray Horton passing on him.  Milliner solidified his status as a Top 5 pick after a great showing at The Combine, and could be in contention to be taken at the very top of the Draft.  The 6′ 200 lb. cornerback had a terrific 2012 season as he logged 22 passes defended over the team’s 14 games, and added 54 Tackles and 2 Interceptions to his statline as the Crimson Tide won the national championship.

7. Arizona Cardinals: Lane Johnson OT (Oklahoma)

Arizona’s offensive line surrendered a League high 58.0 sacks last year, and Bobby Massie and D’Anthony Batiste looked lost at the tackle positions numerous times in 2012.  If they cannot trade down, the Cardinals might be best served to take Lane Johnson at #7.  The former Sooner (6’6″ 303 lbs.) is an intriguing prospect who played quarterback in high school and at junior college, and spent time at Tight End and defensive end in Norman as well.  For the last two years though Johnson has manned both the right (12 Starts) and left (11 Starts) tackle spots, and has the potential to be a stable pass-protector down the road at either tackle position.

8. Buffalo Bills: Geno Smith QB (West Virginia)

Kansas City’s decision to trade for Alex Smith is huge for Buffalo, as they will likely be able to select a quarterback they want in Round 1 without having to give up a large amount to acquire one by moving up from #8.  Even though the franchise signed Kevin Kolb, I cannot see how they view him as a long-term answer.  In the event that Geno Smith (6’2″ 218 lbs.) falls to Buffalo, I believe that the Bills’ new Head Coach Doug Marrone will be interested in acquiring him.  The strong-armed, accurate, and athletic former Mountaineer (2012: 369 for 518 (71.2%), 4,205 Yards, 42 TD’s, and 6 INT’s) would be a solid fit in Marrone’s offense as the Bills begin the long process of rebuilding.

9. New York Jets: Cordarrelle Patterson WR (Tennessee)

2013 could be the “Last Stand” for both Rex Ryan and Mark Sanchez in New York.  If the Jets wish to make their anemic passing offense better, they could roll the dice on Cordarrelle Patterson of Tennessee.  The 6’2″ 216 lb. Junior was a phenomenal kick returner and wide receiver at the junior college level before he came to Knoxville this past year, and boy did he make a splash in 2012.  Over 11 Games, Patterson caught 42 passes for 690 Yards and 4 TD’s, he rushed for 270 Yards and 3 TD’s, and returned 1 Kickoff and 1 Punt for TD’s.  Although his skill-set is still very raw, Patterson just makes plays when he has the football in his hands, and teams must respect his speed.

10. Tennessee Titans: Star Lotulelei DT (Utah)

If the Titans elect to not find upgrades at cornerback and offensive guard in Round 1, then I believe that they will try to draft a defensive tackle at #10 overall.  Sen’Derrick Marks is an impending UFA and Tennessee could stand to use another stout defensive tackle to add to the mix with Jurrell Casey and Mike Martin if Marks indeed leaves.  Despite being double-teamed and keyed on for much of the season,  Lotulelei (6’2″ 311 lbs.) was a 1st Team All-Pac-12 performer in 2012 as he amassed 42 tackles, 5.0 sacks, 11.0 tackles for loss, 3 forced fumbles, and 4 fumble recoveries.  If teams shy away from Lotulelei due his heart issue, the Titans might still snatch him up in a “Best Player Available” scenario.

11. San Diego Chargers: Barkevious Mingo OLB (Louisiana State)

The Chargers need to improve their pass-protection, and their pass-rush.  If Lane Johnson is off of the board by the time San Diego goes on the clock in Round 1, the Front Office might want to take a chance on the ultra-athletic Barkevious Mingo of Louisiana State.  Sporting a 6’4″ and 241 lb. frame, Mingo possesses a tremendous amount of speed (4.58 40 Yard Dash) and agility (6.84 3-Cone Drill) off of the edge which should help him translate well to the professional level.  The biggest issues with Mingo however deal with how raw his skill-set is and his limited production (4.5 sacks and 8.5 tackles for loss) at Louisiana State last season.

12. Miami Dolphins: Bjoern Werner DE (Florida State)

After their Free Agent spending splurge, the Dolphins still need to find an outside pass-rusher to pair with Pro Bowler Cameron Wake (15.0 sacks in 2012).  Bjoern Werner’s stock could be falling after his pedestrian showing at The Combine, but if Werner is available at #12, I would have to believe that Miami would make him their 1st Round selection.  Although the German-born Werner (6’3″ 266 lbs.) is relatively new to the game football, he continued to improve his pass-rushing skills as he logged 18.0 tackles for loss and 13.0 sacks from his defensive end position last season.

13. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Xavier Rhodes CB (Florida State)

The Buccaneers need help at cornerback, and need it there probably more than at any spot on the rest of their roster.  Aqib Talib is long gone, the team is trying to trade Eric Wright, and E.J. Biggers has left for Washington.  Xavier Rhodes (6’1″ 210 lbs.) was a 1st Team All-ACC Cornerback as he racked up 39 tackles and 3 interceptions during the 2012 season as the most talented player in the Seminoles defensive backfield.  A team can never have too many corners in today’s N.F.L., and Rhodes is terrific in man-coverage situations because he can use his physical stature to his advantage.

14. Carolina Panthers: Sheldon Richardson DT (Missouri)

Although the Panthers’ defense improved this past year, issues still exist along the interior of their defensive line.  Carolina’s run defense could be helped by an impact player like 3-technique prospect Sheldon Richardson from Missouri.  After two years at the junior college level, and one year in a non-starter role with the Tigers, the agile and powerful Richardson (6’3″ 295 lbs.) burst on the scene in 2012 when he racked up 75 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, and 4.0 sacks over Missouri’s 11 games.

15. New Orleans Saints: Jarvis Jones OLB (Georgia)

The Saints could stand to acquire a 3-4 pass-rusher this offseason.  New Defensive Coordinator Rex Ryan could be intrigued to take Georgia’s Outside Linebacker Jarvis Jones.  Although Jones’ “spinal stenosis” condition and poor Pro Day workout could scare scouts away, some teams in need of an athletic pass-rusher are sure to be willing to gamble on the former Bulldog.  Last season, Jones (6’2″ 245 lbs.) racked up 24.5 tackles for loss and 14.5 sacks, and would be a bargain for the Saints if he falls all the way down to #15 overall.

16. St. Louis Rams: Tavon Austin WR (West Virginia)

Danny Amendola is now a Patriot, and the Rams could try to find his replacement early in the form of a slot receiver like Tavon Austin (5’8″ 174 lbs.).  Not only did Austin top the 100 catch mark during his Junior season, he had an even more productive Senior campaign as he recorded 114 grabs for 1,289 yards and 12 touchdowns.  But Austin not only shined in the passing game for the Mountaineers, he also was effective in the run-game as he rushed for an incredible 643 yards and 3 touchdowns.

Although retaining Lewis is likely a top priority for the Steelers, I do not consider him to be the “Must-Sign At All Costs” UFA he is believed by many to be.  Moreover, I still staunchly believe that Pittsburgh’s brass should exercise fiscal responsibility when they take part in negotiations to re-up their Free Agent Cornerback.

Keenan Lewis could be leaving Pittsburgh this offseason. Mandatory Credit: Jim O’Connor – USA Today Sports

Recent Free Agent Contracts, and What Lewis Could Be Offered

Competent pass-defenders are always a welcome addition to any roster.  Thus, if a Cornerback can show some sort of promise early in his career, he can become a very rich man if he tests Free Agent market during his mid-late 20′s.

Even though Lewis was the Pittsburgh’s #2 man behind Ike Taylor at the position, the starter’s Passes Defended numbers from last year and overall skill-set could entice some Secondary-starved teams with plenty of cap-space (Indianapolis, Tampa Bay, and Cleveland) to consider him as a high-priority pickup.

If a market grows for Lewis, some of these franchises might even be willing to shell out “#1 Money” for the Steelers’ #2 man at the position to out-bid others for his services.

So how much do #1 Cornerbacks make in this day and age?  Well, these guys below became very rich men last Spring:

• Cortland Finnegan (5 years: $50 million), 79 Career Starts, 14 Interceptions, 28 years of age when deal was signed.

• Brandon Carr (5 years: $50.1 million), 64 Career Starts, 8 Interceptions, 6 Fumble Recoveries, 25 years old.

• Lardarius Webb (5 years: $50 million + $10 million s.b.), 19 Starts, 7 Interceptions, 4 Forced Fumbles, 1 KOR TD, 1 PR TD, 26 years old

• Eric Wright (5 years: $37.5 million), 71 Career Starts, 13 Interceptions, 26 years old.

How Much Lewis Should Be Offered

Look, I understand that the number of Passes Defended Lewis recorded last year were the most by any player in the A.F.C. last year.  In addition, I will give Lewis credit for how much he improved in numerous areas of his game, especially in man-to-man coverage, from Week 1 to Week 17.

I however did not consider the soon to be 5th year player to be “lights out,” or Pittsburgh’s most effective Cornerback over the course of the entire 2012 campaign.  I do not believe that a player possessing Lewis’ experience (45 Games, 17 Starts) and inconsistent ability to bring ball-carriers down (whiff against Philadelphia on 4th and Inches last year was awful) should be paid like a #1 guy at his position.  I should also mention that Lewis was not even covering opponents’ #1 targets until Ike Taylor went down with his leg injury against Baltimore in Week 13!  Thus, if the Steelers’ Free Agent Cornerback expects the already strapped Front Office to pay him “top-dollar” this month, I hope that Pittsburgh’s brass tells him to rethink that idea.

Sure, some fans might be wowed by the large number of PD’s Lewis recorded last year, and some believe that those numbers alone make him a #1 Cornerback.  But consider the following fans:

A large reason why Keenan racked up those stats was because the opposition was more willing to test him than they were the crafty veteran like Ike on the other side of the field.  Overall, Keenan was targeted a total of 112 times (2nd most in the League) during the 2012 season according to Pro Football Focus (ESPN.com)!  Thus, shouldn’t any somewhat competent player at Lewis’ position be able to break up the most passes in the A.F.C. if he is targeted that many times over the course of a regular season?

I should also mention that the number “112″ also points to the biggest reasons why I believe that Lewis is such a potential “big-money” risk:

His deficient ball-skills, and his inability to record Interceptions and Turnovers.

As most of you know, although Lewis was targeted so often in 2012, he recorded ZERO Interceptions and only ONE Takeaway (1 Forced Fumble) over the course of the 2012 season!  Let me state that again: 112 times the opposition threw passes Lewis’ way in 2012, and he was unable to record one single “pick!”  Sure, Steeler Cornerbacks have never been known for recording Interceptions in LeBeau’s Defensive scheme.  But “oh-for” in 112 chances for Interceptions, and only 1 Forced Fumble?  Give me a break with that “#1 Cornerback” nonsense.

Look, I am fully aware that Interceptions are not the “be-all, end-all” indicator of great Cornerback play.  And yes, I understand that “shut-down” guys at the position do not record large amounts of Interceptions.  Yet the elite’s lack of “picks” deals less with their overall ball-skills and ability to make plays, and instead more with the fact that opposing Quarterbacks do not want to make a mistake in their direction.

One would think that Corners who earn $50 million over a contract are supposed to have “field-days” on the stat-sheet in terms of Interceptions collected or chances to make “splash plays” if they are targeted 112 times in a season like Lewis was in 2012.  Although I am not an expert, I think that it is pretty safe to assume that none of those guys I mentioned above would have gone “oh-for” if they had 112 balls going their way over a 16 game stretch.

So how much do I believe that Lewis should be making per season?  Well it certainly is not $10 million, that’s for sure.  But Pittsburgh’s Front Office members might want to keep a couple of contracts signed by Cornerbacks last year in mind when they try to negotiate a deal with Lewis:

• Aaron Ross (3 years: $15.3 million), 41 Career Starts, 10 Interceptions, 2 Touchdowns, 2 Super Bowl Rings, 29 years old

• Richard Marshall (3 years: $16 million), 55 Career Starts, 17 Interceptions, 7.0 Sacks, 27 years old

The Marshall deal from last year has some numbers which G.M. Kevin Colbert and the rest of the Front Office should really keep in mind.  Lewis, like Marshall, is a Starting Cornerback, but not a #1 guy on his own team.  In addition, Lewis will also be 27 years of age by the time the 2013 regular season gets underway.  By 27 though, Marshall was much more of a productive player than Lewis currently is, and had already logged 38 more starts at the professional level than the former Oregon State Beaver has under his belt in the present.  Pittsburgh’s Cornerback might possess the upside to have a better career than Marshall, but his sample-size is so small that one must question how high his talent ceiling will inevitably be.

Thus, if the Steelers are looking to re-up Lewis, and he seriously wants t0 return, I believe that a contract in the $5-6 million dollar per year range over the duration of 4 to 5 years would be a great place to start for a #2 guy right now like him.  If Pittsburgh’s Coaching Staff believes that he can and will usurp Ike as the #1 guy once he leaves, and can keep the depth behind him at bay too, then some incentive-based bonuses (for TAKEAWAYS) can be included for Lewis to earn.

As I alluded to in a previous post, a 4 year deal worth anything between $22 and $24 million would be more than fair for the Steelers to offer a player with Lewis’ upside.  Yet I in no way shape or form believe that a current #2 Cornerback with only 17 career Starts, 1 career Interception, 2 career Forced Fumbles, 0 Postseason Starts, and hands reminiscent of “cinder-blocks” should receive anything more than that type of “fair” offer at this point in his career.

Final Thoughts

Look readers, I am completely and totally in favor of the Steelers re-signing Lewis.  I simply cannot comprehend why Pittsburgh’s brass would want to “break the bank” for such a Cornerback of his caliber and with his lack of experience.  If in fact any team offers Lewis more than $6 million per season, I hope that the Pittsburgh’s brass simply steps away and counts the money which they will inevitably allocate to other more important members on their roster (Maurkice Pouncey and Heath Miller come to mind).

I should also add that it is not like the Steelers have “chopped liver” set to take over for Lewis on the outside if he decides to leave.  Cortez Allen is waiting in the wings if Lewis takes his game elsewhere, and the soon to be 3rd year Cornerback should be primed to improve off of a very productive year as Pittsburgh’s Nickelback in 2012.  The former Citadel star not only set a career high in Tackles last year with 55, but he also finished with 10 PD’s, 2 Interceptions, 3 Forced Fumbles, and 1 Fumble Recovery.

Granted, if Lewis leaves the Steelers will have to rely on William Gay and youngsters like Curtis Brown, Josh Victorian, and DeMarcus Van Dyke to play with consistency, and pick up the slack in the Slot and sub-packages.  By the same token though, Pittsburgh’s brass will be able to learn whether or not the younger guys have the potential to improve, and are indeed worthy of being in the franchise’s long-term rebuilding plans.  While some of you will complain about the inevitable “growing pains,” just remember that Lewis was not exactly setting the N.F.L. “on fire” early in his career (2010 Denver Preseason Disaster).  It took him 3 full years before he showed any sort of competency as a starter, and I should add that it was during a “contract year” for him.  Remember readers, Ike Taylor signed a deal worth $28 million over 4 years after he had started on 2 Super Bowl teams, and established himself as the team’s best Cornerback over the half decade preceding the 2011 deal.  Has Lewis done anything like that over his 4 seasons at the professional level?

Current depth and concerns about Lewis aside, I actually would like nothing more than for the Steelers to re-sign their #2 Cornerback.  I just hope that the members of the Steelers’ Front Office do not have to “make it rain” to keep him in Pittsburgh.  A $30+ million dollar deal will simply not be worth the time, effort, and cap-space for a rebuilding franchise like the Steelers to take on at this juncture.

Readers: Should the Steelers pay “top dollar” to keep Lewis in town?  Or are they better off giving Allen a chance to start, and allocating their cap-space elsewhere?

Stats Courtesy of: Pro Football Reference.com and ESPN.com

Contract Information Courtesy of: Spotrac.com and CBS.Sportsline

• The 2013 N.F.L. Salary Cap ($120.6 Million in 2012) was recently reported to be $123 Million.

• Keenan Lewis could leave as a UFA this month.

• Defensive Coordinator Dick LeBeau only plays younger players in “Break Glass in Case of Emergency” scenarios.

Right now, I am essentially indifferent to the fact that Gay is back in The Steel City.  I mean, at least the guy has been able to force Turnovers over the last two years (4 INT’s, 4 FF’s, 1 FR).  You know, Turnovers, something the Steelers’ Secondary could not force on a consistent basis last season (6 combined INT’s in 16 by Pittsburgh’s Defensive Backs in 2012).  I understand that many will point to his struggles in Arizona as a reason why he should not have been signed.  But I honestly cannot fault a guy for getting picked on as bad as Gay did (726 Yards Passing Allowed) last year when:

• He was a Starting Cornerback instead of a Nickelback with the Cardinals.

• Pro Bowler Patrick Peterson played on the opposite side of him.

Pittsburgh’s move to bring the six-year veteran from Louisville was actually a pretty significant one though.  In fact, one could argue that Gay’s acquisition highlights just how little faith the Steelers’ brass and Coaching Staff have in the guys behind Cortez Allen on the depth chart at Cornerback: Curtis Brown, Josh Victorian, and DeMarcus Van Dyke.

Brown is now “On Notice.” Mandatory Credit: Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports

Backup Cornerbacks “On Notice” With Gay in Town

Curtis Brown

Gerry Dulac of The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette actually Tweeted the following in the aftermath of the Gay signing, and I believe that he captured the acquisition’s meaning perfectly:

Steelers signing of William Gay is more about Curtis Brown than Keenan Lewis

 

Things have not been easy for Brown since he came to Pittsburgh, especially when most believed that he would be the first of Pittsburgh’s Corners drafted in 2011 to make a significant impact on the Defensive side of the ball.  Oddly enough, it is the then-raw and inexperienced Cortez Allen who has received a significant amount of playing time over the last two years.  In fact, if Lewis leaves, Allen will be first in line to take over the #2 Cornerback spot.

Brown was basically abused and picked on when the Steelers took on the Chargers and Cowboys last year in Weeks 14 and 15.  I cannot necessarily blame the poor guy, especially since he had been forced to rot on the bench for the entirety of his career up until that point (2012: 28 Tackles, 2 PD’s).  Experienced or not, Brown looked lost, and San Diego’s smaller and shiftier pass-catchers particularly took advantage of how fast the game seemed to the poor Cornerback.  With William Gay in town again, Brown will be forced to fight for reps to stay on the field in “Dime” situations if Lewis stays.  Unfortunately for the former Texas Longhorn, he will have more competition than the veteran Gay to fight off this Summer.

Josh Victorian

Victorian to his credit made the team off of the Practice Squad, and was receiving a good deal of playing time by the time the regular season finished.  Like Brown, Victorian had his fair share of issues against the Chargers, and looked over-matched on a fade route TD pass.  The former Louisiana Tech Bulldog was at even more of a disadvantage the following week when Miles Austin and Dez Bryant were taking it to him up and down the field in Dallas.  Victorian (2012: 10 Tackles, 2 PD’s) did show some signs of improvement against Cincinnati and Cleveland during Pittsburgh’s final two games, and has the potential to be a valuable “Dimeback.”  With Gay in town now though, it certainly appears that Victorian will once again have to fight for a roster spot once Training Camp begins.

DeMarcus Van Dyke

Acquired before the 2012 regular season began, I actually believed that DeMarcus Van Dyke could have been a Free Agent steal for Pittsburgh if he was given time to learn the Defense and develop.  A 3rd Round pick in the 2011 Draft, Van Dyke struggled during his first and only season in Oakland, and was eventually released after only one year with the Raiders.  Unfortunately for Van Dyke, he only played in 9 games last season before he sustained a season-ending shoulder injury versus Dallas.  Worst of all though, DeMarcus was almost exclusively used on Special Teams (2012: 3 Tackles) and was eventually passed by Victorian on the team’s depth chart.  Of the three players I mention today, Van Dyke’s journey to a roster spot will likely be the toughest due to his lack of experience on the Defensive side of the ball with the Steelers.

Final Thoughts

Overall, I believe that Gay’s deal (3-year $4.5 million) makes sense from both cost and football-insurance purposes.  With the cap moving up, the Steelers should be able to afford a small-cost and small-risk deal like Willie’s.  Remember, Pittsburgh has yet to restructure LaMarr Woodley’s “albatross” of a long-term deal.  Furthermore, the team also has the option of either releasing or restructuring expensive veterans like James Harrison and Willie Colon too.  I should also mention though that the Steelers brass’ have created significant amounts of “cap room” after they massively restructured the deals of Lawrence Timmons, Antonio Brown, and Ben Roethlisberger over the last month too.

Warm and fuzzy feelings about “cap compliance” aside, Gay’s signing basically illustrates exactly what Dulac’s Tweet alluded to: the utter lack of faith this team and Coaching Staff have in Brown, Victorian, and Van Dyke at this point in the offseason.

Do not get me wrong, all three of these players must step up their games’ if they want to remain with the Steelers in 2013.  As professionals on a veteran Defense, they simply are not going to be handed playing time for sub-par play.

Who knows though?  All three of them could take Gay’s acquisition as a challenge, and use it as fuel to play better this year.  Thus, a stellar offseason workout and Preseason performance by somebody could force the Coaching Staff to keep them around for depth purposes.  Unfortunately, I am not sure that any of the aforementioned players will be able to stay in Pittsburgh if they struggle in 2013 like they did in 2012.

Readers: Do you like the move to bring Gay back to Pittsburgh?  How many of these three aforementioned players will be cut?

Stats Courtesy of: ESPN.com Team Page