Pittsburgh Steelers: 5 Top targets with No. 49 pick in 2020 NFL Draft
By Samuel Teets
2. Neville Gallimore, DT
The Steelers need a defensive presence to replace Javon Hargrave, who signed with the Philadelphia Eagles this offseason. Neville Gallimore certainly would add a new level of versatility to Pittsburgh’s defensive front, but he’s an incredibly raw prospect. Some analysts believe he could go in the late-first round while others view him as an early third-round pick.
Gallimore’s lack of refinement will cost him on draft night. His drop in production, from 50 tackles in 2018 to 29 in 2019, could also play a role in his slide into the late second round. However, Gallimore did flash improvements in his technique from 2018 to 2019. Specifically, he used his hands to compensate for his poor use of leverage.
The Oklahoma product may never develop into a fully-rounded player, but he works as hard as any other prospect in the draft. Gallimore never takes a play off. His potential and work ethic might make up for his lack of production against the run.
1. Clyde Edwards-Helaire, RB
Pittsburgh doesn’t need a running back. If the team feels confident in giving James Conner and Benny Snell another year to work on things, fine. However, the Steelers will get the best return on their investment at 49th overall by drafting a running back. In a year where every back might slide to the second round, a special runner will be available when Pittsburgh gets on the clock for the first time.
In the perfect scenario, Jonathan Taylor would find himself falling to 49th overall after D’Andre Swift and J.K. Dobbins dropped to the early second round. Realistically, that seems like a stretch. It’s more likely that Cam Akers, Clyde Edwards-Helaire and Zack Moss will still be on the board.
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While I’m personally a big fan of Akers, Edwards-Helaire gives Pittsburgh a new type of running back. The 5-7 LSU product can cut on a dime and drop defenders with his sudden moves. He’s crisp and smooth on the field. While power and home run speed might pose concerns, Edwards-Helaire is a dynamic player when the ball is in his hands.