things i think i think - 4/10/2025

[SteelerOfDeVille]

• I think it's interesting to see Shedeur Sanders coming into town this week. I know there was talk about him potentially dropping, but there's no way he falls this far, is there?
  • I also think the Steelers (and Tomlin himself) have enough "star power" that Deion would be pretty respectful in how he handled everything. If Shedeur is as talented as the preseason top pick suggests this is a two birds one stone. If he's there, I think you take him and call it a day. But, he won't be.

• I think I saw recently that the Khan/Weidl tandem has gone 2-for-2 in bringing in the actual first round selection very late in the visit process - as if they're saving the best for last (Fautanu visited April 15, 2024, Jones April 17, 2023). If I did my homework correctly, both of those days were Mondays. If this trend holds true, keep an eye out to this coming Monday for a Kenneth Grant visit - it would certainly make sense.

• I think that while this has been discussed quite a bit, it cannot be understated that Pickens has a trade target on his back. At the absolute minimum, they don't see him in the long-term plans as a re-signing candidate because they are looking at WR who profile just like him (taller guys). I know, I know - why would you fix the problem then re-cause it for yourself? To that, I say, "don't blame the messenger". All I can tell you is in order to have an effective toolbox, you don't fill it with a dozen of the exact same tool. You need a variety of tools. The only reason you start shopping for a new, *identical* tool is if you're about to replace the old one.

• I think this RB class is really deep. I think Jeanty is the only one worthy of a first round pick. And I think he'll be gone - and even if he's not, I think I'd pass. I think the team is likely to select RB in rounds 3-5 because worst case, you have Warren and Gainwell. Best case, the class is as deep as we think it is and you get a 5th rounder who's solid.

• Finally, I think I'll post a mock here a little later. heh

[steeler_fan_in_t.o.]

Nice post Deville. I like your posts, always well reasoned.

I also wouldn't have a problem with a Sanders sideshow. Deion may have an ego but he also has enough experience and intelligence to know how teams operate and I don't think he'd create the type of distraction that derails that. That being said, I don't think he falls to 21, and with only 6 picks this year I'm not willing to give one up to move up to the teens if he starts falling.

The Pickens situation will be a good watch. On the one hand, the Steelers possess a top 5 1-2 punch at receiver in the league. On the other hand, Pickens was already in a dicey position before acquiring DK, OC who is not known for airing it out to 2 explosive receivers, last year of his contract, and team bringing in similar receivers to him. I'd love to see an offense that utilizes both of these two receivers, with guys like Freiermuth and Austin receiving secondary attention for big play ability, but realistically, if someone offers a second in this draft for Pickens, you have to figure he's gone, and the team is essentially where it was before the trade - one big play receiver and a bunch of the same guys everywhere else.

As deep as this RB class is, I go Jeanty in a heartbeat. First, I still like Warren in his role (despite an off year) but don't see him as an RB1. I also don't think the guys in round 3-4 are close to the same back the Jeanty is. I haven't watched a lot of college players, but I've watched as much of Jeanty (not just highlights but every carry) and he is a special player. I think the drop off between him and others in later rounds is like a premium, game-changer vs. say a Joe Mixon, Aaron Jones - good backs but who won't go out and win you games on a week-to-week basis. I'd like a DT in the first, but if Jeanty is there my plan changes in a heartbeat.

[Dog chasing Cat]

• I think it's interesting to see Shedeur Sanders coming into town this week. I know there was talk about him potentially dropping, but there's no way he falls this far, is there?
  • I also think the Steelers (and Tomlin himself) have enough "star power" that Deion would be pretty respectful in how he handled everything. If Shedeur is as talented as the preseason top pick suggests this is a two birds one stone. If he's there, I think you take him and call it a day. But, he won't be.

• I think I saw recently that the Khan/Weidl tandem has gone 2-for-2 in bringing in the actual first round selection very late in the visit process - as if they're saving the best for last (Fautanu visited April 15, 2024, Jones April 17, 2023). If I did my homework correctly, both of those days were Mondays. If this trend holds true, keep an eye out to this coming Monday for a Kenneth Grant visit - it would certainly make sense.

• I think that while this has been discussed quite a bit, it cannot be understated that Pickens has a trade target on his back. At the absolute minimum, they don't see him in the long-term plans as a re-signing candidate because they are looking at WR who profile just like him (taller guys). I know, I know - why would you fix the problem then re-cause it for yourself? To that, I say, "don't blame the messenger". All I can tell you is in order to have an effective toolbox, you don't fill it with a dozen of the exact same tool. You need a variety of tools. The only reason you start shopping for a new, *identical* tool is if you're about to replace the old one.

• I think this RB class is really deep. I think Jeanty is the only one worthy of a first round pick. And I think he'll be gone - and even if he's not, I think I'd pass. I think the team is likely to select RB in rounds 3-5 because worst case, you have Warren and Gainwell. Best case, the class is as deep as we think it is and you get a 5th rounder who's solid.

• Finally, I think I'll post a mock here a little later. heh

I too think this is a good post. But I don't think we have a shot at Sanders and quite frankly, I'm not sure I even want him. No way he's getting past the Saints or Raiders; which means we'd have to trade up with them to even have a chance and we already are down a second round pick from the Metcalf acquisition. Plus......I see Deion Sanders as possibly being Lavar Ball 2.0 in regards to Shudeur. We just don't need the circus here. This is the year (more then ever before I believe) we need to trade further down in the first round and pick back up a second round pick. And as far as adding another QB is concerned, I like Tyler Shough and what he may bring to us at the position.

[Oviedo]

Trade Pickens for a #2 and draft Milroe who will be better long-term

[whatever]

what ‘star power’ does tomlin or this organization have?
seriously.

[whatever]

Trade Pickens for a #2 and draft Milroe who will be better long-term

weren’t you adamant about not drafting any qb until the 3rd or 4th round because it would be kenny picket all over again?

[Joel Buchsbaum]

• I think it's interesting to see Shedeur Sanders coming into town this week. I know there was talk about him potentially dropping, but there's no way he falls this far, is there?
  • I also think the Steelers (and Tomlin himself) have enough "star power" that Deion would be pretty respectful in how he handled everything. If Shedeur is as talented as the preseason top pick suggests this is a two birds one stone. If he's there, I think you take him and call it a day. But, he won't be.

• I think I saw recently that the Khan/Weidl tandem has gone 2-for-2 in bringing in the actual first round selection very late in the visit process - as if they're saving the best for last (Fautanu visited April 15, 2024, Jones April 17, 2023). If I did my homework correctly, both of those days were Mondays. If this trend holds true, keep an eye out to this coming Monday for a Kenneth Grant visit - it would certainly make sense.

• I think that while this has been discussed quite a bit, it cannot be understated that Pickens has a trade target on his back. At the absolute minimum, they don't see him in the long-term plans as a re-signing candidate because they are looking at WR who profile just like him (taller guys). I know, I know - why would you fix the problem then re-cause it for yourself? To that, I say, "don't blame the messenger". All I can tell you is in order to have an effective toolbox, you don't fill it with a dozen of the exact same tool. You need a variety of tools. The only reason you start shopping for a new, *identical* tool is if you're about to replace the old one.

• I think this RB class is really deep. I think Jeanty is the only one worthy of a first round pick. And I think he'll be gone - and even if he's not, I think I'd pass. I think the team is likely to select RB in rounds 3-5 because worst case, you have Warren and Gainwell. Best case, the class is as deep as we think it is and you get a 5th rounder who's solid.

• Finally, I think I'll post a mock here a little later. heh

I want NO part of Sanders in round one. Dude is turnover prone, was easily sacked in college, and looked like just a guy in his bowl game vs. his highest rated opponent (17th ) in BYU.

He is not a running QB in the NFL.

How is his ball security? Bad. Part of the reason he was sacked so often is a slow QB clock to process things.

[url]https://www.espn.com/college-football/player/gamelog/_/id/4432762/shedeur-sanders[/url]

[SteelerOfDeVille]

Nice post Deville. I like your posts, always well reasoned.

I also wouldn't have a problem with a Sanders sideshow. Deion may have an ego but he also has enough experience and intelligence to know how teams operate and I don't think he'd create the type of distraction that derails that. That being said, I don't think he falls to 21, and with only 6 picks this year I'm not willing to give one up to move up to the teens if he starts falling.

I too think this is a good post. But I don't think we have a shot at Sanders and quite frankly, I'm not sure I even want him. No way he's getting past the Saints or Raiders; which means we'd have to trade up with them to even have a chance and we already are down a second round pick from the Metcalf acquisition. Plus......I see Deion Sanders as possibly being Lavar Ball 2.0 in regards to Shudeur. We just don't need the circus here. This is the year (more then ever before I believe) we need to trade further down in the first round and pick back up a second round pick. And as far as adding another QB is concerned, I like Tyler Shough and what he may bring to us at the position.

Thanks gang - I agree that it's unlikely for him to fall, but the talking heads keep talking about it. I don't know if there's a legit chance, but I would imagine there's a legit interest, both by team and player. His interview with Kay Adams, he couldn't hold in his excitement when asked about the Steelers.

A sneak of inside info on my mock that I'll post here tomorrow, but re wide receivers. I think they're intrigued by Jayden Higgins more than any of the d-linemen; partly because there are *so many* defensive linemen and much fewer WR.

I'm almost annoyed that this is showing up in articles today - that was my sneaky final mock move when i made this thread last week.

I don't know if it's trade down from round 1 or trading pickens away to get a 2nd, but I think that's *the* guy they want in all of this draft and come hell or high water, they're going to get him.

[SteelerOfDeVille]

what ‘star power’ does tomlin or this organization have?
seriously.

The *national* talking heads talk about the Steelers and Tomlin, deserved or not. And Prime (and his kid) recognize that. And they understand that they will get the coverage because the team gets it now and they aren't really relevant to any playoff pictures. Imagine if he brings them wins.

Basically, the Steelers are like Tiger Woods - used to be great and talking heads keep talking about them because it still brings ratings.

(Trust me, we're all frustrated that they aren't winning meaningful games. )

[LPMAN]

Makes no sense to trade Pickens. You'll get a 3rd comp the following year anyway. Get a year of Both Metcalf & Pickens. Our offense has been so lacking for almost a decade. Don't diminish it's only strength now, just because yinzers expect WRS to be choir boys.

[WindyCitySteel]

Trade Pickens for a #2 and draft Milroe who will be better long-term

Speak it into existence. Milroe would be great for a simplified offense, he’s got the skills to make plays downfield and with his legs. Add a RB like Judkins or my favorite non-Jeanty back in this draft, Kaleb Johnson, and you’re seriously upgraded the offensive skill set.

LPMAN - Do you think Pickens will be a good soldier in his contract year when he’s not the #1 target? We saw him quit on the field several times when he was frustrated before, this would be a whole new level of frustration, I’m afraid.

[whatever]

The *national* talking heads talk about the Steelers and Tomlin, deserved or not. And Prime (and his kid) recognize that. And they understand that they will get the coverage because the team gets it now and they aren't really relevant to any playoff pictures. Imagine if he brings them wins.

Basically, the Steelers are like Tiger Woods - used to be great and talking heads keep talking about them because it still brings ratings.

(Trust me, we're all frustrated that they aren't winning meaningful games. )

there are a handful of talking heads that live in the past(just like in here) but i think the majority realize we aren’t anything special anymore.
there has been plenty of negative comments regarding this team the last 5 years. you rarely saw that before.
(nice tiger woods analogy tho)
i have no facts, but i believe there are plenty teams that get more ‘positive’ coverage than us.

[SteelerOfDeVille]

Makes no sense to trade Pickens. You'll get a 3rd comp the following year anyway. Get a year of Both Metcalf & Pickens. Our offense has been so lacking for almost a decade. Don't diminish it's only strength now, just because yinzers expect WRS to be choir boys.

I just don't see the team being able to afford him after signing Metcalf. So, sure you can have one fun year that is still barely a playoff team OR.... You can get a 3rd in 2025 or a 3rd in 2027. Significant difference.

[SteelerOfDeVille]

there are a handful of talking heads that live in the past(just like in here) but i think the majority realize we aren’t anything special anymore.
there has been plenty of negative comments regarding this team the last 5 years. you rarely saw that before.
(nice tiger woods analogy tho)
i have no facts, but i believe there are plenty teams that get more ‘positive’ coverage than us.

thanks on the TW analogy - i think there's some truth to it.

we take it all for granted because we're not the arizona cardinals and we actually get national media coverage EVERY broadcast. that does not happen for all 32 teams. seriously, think of the last time you watched a broadcast on nfl network and the steelers didn't come up.

[SteelerOfDeVille]

Mock, one week in advance.

1. Derreck Harmon, DE, Oregon - This guy is Cam a little over a decade ago, but he has the chance to learn under Cam himself. You don't overthink this one, you just take him. Every profile you read says, "plays like a Steeler". He's been my top pick for months, but I admit that I expected the team to like Grant. Since he didn't visit, this seems to be the clear selection to make the boss happy on the run defense.

2. Jayden Higgins, WR, Iowa St (pickens trade) - I honestly think that apart from appeasing the boss with DL, this is their biggest *want* in the entire draft. With that, they trade whatever they can to get into the second to come away with Higgins -- which in my estimation is Pickens and a 3rd. Before you tell me that's giving up too much - if you believe Pickens is worth a 3rd? A 2nd is worth two 3rds, just look at the trade charts...

3. <traded away with Pickens to get Higgins>

4a. Kyle McCord, QB, Syracuse - They just miss on Shough who goes at the end of the 3rd so they spend the time between day 2 and 3 working on a deal to get a second 4th rounder and McCord is the pick

4b. RJ Harvey, RB, UCF - Tomlin was really intrigued by this kid at the Senior Bowl. And so was I. He's smallish, but has more power than you'd expect for a smaller guy. And he's got some speed, nice jump cuts and elusive moves. This is the "lightening" of the future. After the draft, I wouldn't be shocked by a larger UDFA @ RB (Phil Mafah?) who can move piles on short yardage.

5. Yahya Black, NT, Iowa - this guy has the size to play anywhere in a 3-man front, but needs some technique refinement.

6. <traded away, along with a 2026 draft pick to get McCord>

7. Carson Bruener, LB, Washington - this just makes sense. They usually select a random special teamer at TE/LB/S at this spot and who better than a bloodlines pick?

Final comments:
I don't know if they're planning on going up or down, but I think they'll be active traders during this draft. I wouldn't be totally shocked by a trade down from the first while picking up a high 2nd and a high 3rd from family friends, NYG.

Based on visits, they've looked at a lot of round 2 players (Jayden Higgins, Jaxson Dart, Kaleb Johnson, Azareye'h Thomas, etc) and I don't believe that's for naught. Throw in the potential Pickens trade and they could hold a lot of day 2 selections and really shake this draft up because rounds 2-4 are loaded with talent at positions of need.

If I have time to do a final mock, I'd probably lean toward doing that Giants trade, just to see what it looks like. I think it's a realistic scenario