Mock of the Day

Resign Hamtpon, Clark, Reed, Eason, Townsend. RFA Colon, Gay, Spaeth, Sepulveda.

Steelers select 18th, receive compensation picks for McFadden(4th), Washington(5th), and Leftwich(6th).

1. OT Bryan Bulaga
The reality is that the Pittsburgh Steelers are finally able to get that coveted OT they have been desperate to get since 2007. Bulaga is the prototypical OT: big frame at 6'6" 315lbs, very athletic, and is exceptional is pass protection as well as in the run game. Bulaga will start his career at RT and will probably replace Starks when his contract is up.

2. FS Reshad Jones, Georgia
Jones has the athleticism to play both safety spots. He is exceptional against the run, can run and cover with the best, and can make plays on the ball in the air. Big need since the Steelers have no good backup safeties on their roster.

3. CB Kyle Wilson, Boise State
Wilson is one hell of an athlete. He is 5'10" 190lbs who just happens run a 4.40 in the 40. Also, he is considered to be one of the few CBs in this draft who could have shutdown material. Wilson is a ball hawk, is excellent in man to man coverage, and can run with the fastest in the NFL. He is also more than willing to help against the run and is a solid tackler. Even more impressive, he is an accomplished return man for the Broncos.


4. RB Ben Tate, Auburn
Tate has ran hard all year long, as his 1,362 yards and 10 TDs would suggest. Tate also has a chance to run in the 4.4s at the combine. Tate is one of the few complete RBs that could be special at the next level.


4c. TE Colin Peek, Alabama
Peek is an excellent blocker for the Crimson Tide. Has aided the whole stable of RBs, including Heisman winner Mark Ingram, have excellent runs bounced to the outside. He can also be used as a dual threat, he is a solid receiver.



5. OT Jared Veldheer, Hillsdale
Some may question this pick since the Steelers took Bulaga in the 1st round. Here is my thought: Colon is not signed beyond 2010(and not even for the 2010 season currently). If Colon feels like he is above a 2nd year RFA tender, we are in serious trouble here. Hills has shown nothing so far, and there is no one behind him. Veldheer would be incredible value here. He is super athletic, has an imposing frame at 6'9" 320lbs, and his potential has not even been tapped. At Hillsdale, they do not have a strength and conditioning program. He is now working with former 13 year veteran and All-Pro Brad Hopkins. Imagine this kid if filled out even more. He could be the most athletic 340lb man ever.


5c. OLB Antonio Coleman, Auburn He is a very good pass rusher, and is even good in coverage. Is not the fastest player, but he really can get after the QB. He is a very good tackler. Rarely do you see him miss or fail to make a tackle.

6. DE Brandon Deadrick, AlabamaDeadrick is stout against the run, offers value rushing the passer, and his long arms and technique make him very hard to block.
6c. ILB Josh Hull, Penn State Hull has had a monster season. He has 116 tackles, 8.5 for a loss. He is a tackling machine. He is solid in run support and coverage.


7. SS Andrew Sendejo, Rice My gut tells me this kid is going to be an excellent pro for the the Steelers. He is a tackling machine, is very strong against the run, has excellent hands, and can help provide cover over the top. He even possesses decent speed at his frame of 6'2" 216lbs. He will be a steal for the team that decides to take a risk on him.