Pittsburgh Steelers: 7-Round 2018 mock draft after free agency

I’m sure fans will appreciate the Steelers landing a local product here in the third round. However, I can assure you this selection is about far more than just geography. It’s about filling a need with a player who can help get this Pittsburgh defense back to where it used to be.

Sure, the signing of Morgan Burnett was a big help. It made the safety position not as notable of a need for the Steelers. At the same time, it didn’t put the problem completely to bed. Burnett isn’t exactly young, and only addresses one of two safety spots. Although some will say that the other is Sean Davis’, I would go as far as saying he’s not safe from competition in 2018.

The Steelers need as much safety talent as possible moving forward. As luck would have it, Jordan Whitehead has more than enough skill to bring tremendous value to this secondary. Oh, and he’s a gritty, physical player who can help inject some toughness back into this Pittsburgh D.

Sure, Whitehead is more known for his aggressiveness against the run than his coverage skills. Still, with his athleticism and instinctive play, I think he’s more than capable of pushing Davis for the starting gig. At the least, he can steal occasional snaps early on with the potential to earn the job further down the line.

Whitehead is the second (and final) piece to the Steelers’ puzzle at safety. He brings a hit-you-in-the-mouth approach, is versatile enough to play slot cornerback as well, and is a homegrown talent. What more do you want from a third-round pick?