2022 NFL Mock Draft: Malik Willis in the top 5, Cowboys get elite EDGE
By Randy Gurzi
Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. OT. Miami. Zion Nelson. player. 22. 55
22. Pittsburgh Steelers: Zion Nelson, OT, Miami
At one time, the Pittsburgh Steelers had one of the better offensive lines in the NFL but in recent years, they’ve taken a step in the wrong direction. They use this draft pick to try and remedy the situation as they take Miami’s Zion Nelson.
Heading into the 2021 season, Nelson fell some in the PFF 100 according to Alan Rubenstein of Canes Warning, but he says that an injury may have played into that. Rubenstein also adds that Nelson was on fire in the second half of the 2020 campaign.
"“Nelson allowed only five pressures and two sacks with a 79.7 pass-blocking grade from PFF in the final six games of 2020. Those numbers were third-best among LTs in the ACC and 12th in FBS in the final half of 2020. It seemed like the performance Nelson had in the final six games previously elevated his 2022 Draft stock.” — Rubenstein, Canes Warning"
Pittsburgh will be an interesting team to watch this season. They were rumored to have discussions about Ben Roethlisberger and whether or not they should continue with him under center. They also have some in-house options to figure out with Mason Rudolph and Dwayne Haskins.
If Roethlisberger struggles at all this season, one of those two could be the starter in 2022. Either way, they can use a left tackle like Nelson to help a new quarterback — or an aged veteran — feel comfortable in the pocket.