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Pittsburgh Steelers: Keion Adams hopes to find a place on defense

By Russell S. Baxter

Jan 2, 2017; Arlington, TX, USA; Western Michigan Broncos defensive end Keion Adams (1) in action during the game against the Wisconsin Badgers in the 2017 Cotton Bowl game at AT&T Stadium. The Badgers defeat the Broncos 24-16. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 2, 2017; Arlington, TX, USA; Western Michigan Broncos defensive end Keion Adams (1) in action during the game against the Wisconsin Badgers in the 2017 Cotton Bowl game at AT&T Stadium. The Badgers defeat the Broncos 24-16. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Pittsburgh Steelers made eight selections in the 2017 NFL Draft. It would be a major coup if one of their best was saved for last.

It’s been a smidge over a month since the Pittsburgh Steelers made eight selections in the 2017 NFL Draft. Last but not least, the team used a seventh-round selection and the 248th overall pick on the same position that they did in the first round.

Even before general manager Kevin Colbert spends a pick on Western Michigan University pass-rusher Keion Adams, the young prospect was very cognizant of the kind of organization he would be joining. That occurred when he visited the Steel City prior to April’s selection process.

“There is a rich culture, a rich tradition,” said Adams to Teresa Varley of Steelers.com earlier this month. “As soon as I walked into the building you could tell it was a family-oriented culture. The energy and the passion everyone has for football makes it a wonderful situation to be in. I am beyond excited. It’s hard to put it into words.”

For the 6-2, 245-pound Adams, this is a terrific opportunity. With ageless James Harrison on the roster as well as experienced outside backer Arthur Moats, the intriguing prospect has quite the mentors at his disposal. Adams played both linebacker and defensive end in four years in school. He totaled a combined 13 sacks and four forced fumbles the past two seasons.

The Pittsburgh Steelers have made a habit of using first-round draft choices on linebackers. We’ve now seen that happen four times in the last five years. The club didn’t have a lot of success when it came to 2013 pick Jarvis Jones (now with the Arizona Cardinals). But Ryan Shazier (2014) is a Pro Bowler and pass-rusher Bud Dupree (2015) is starting to come into his own.

More nfl spin zone: 2017 NFL Draft: Every team’s worst pick

So while you’re keeping an eye on 2017 first-rounder T.J. Watt, make sure you give more than just a passing glance at Adams. He figures to make a quick impact on special teams and perhaps make his presence felt on defense as well.

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