Who the Mocks say the Steelers will draft

With the draft just a few hours away, here’s the latest list of who the mock draft say the Steelers will draft:

Walter Football:

Kyle Wilson, CB/PR, Boise State

The Steelers usually draft the best player on their board. Their previous two picks, Ziggy Hood and Rashard Mendenhall weren’t slated to start right away, but they were too good to pass on.

It’s tough to speculate on a team’s board, but in this scenario, it seems as though Kyle Wilson is the top player available. There has been some speculation that Wilson could be the first corner drafted this weekend. I don’t really agree with that, but it still indicates that Wilson will be a hot commodity on Draft Day.

Unlike Hood and Mendenhall, Wilson would be expected to start right instantly. Cornerback is a huge need, as the Steelers couldn’t even stop Bruce Gradkowski from orchestrating three fourth-quarter touchdown drives in a crucial December game.

New NFL Draft

Golden Tate, WR, Notre Dame

The Steelers traded away Santonio Holmes so they need a guy to replace him. I know Wallace looked good this past season but he hasn’t proven to be more than a #3 slot receiver. I think with Tate as the deep threat and Hines Ward filling in the middle this could be a good Combination to the scandalous Big Bad Ben to throw to.

Draft King

Mike Iupati, OG, Idaho

Protecting Ben Roethlisberger from defensive pressure should be a priority for the Steelers in 2010, and drafting Iupati would help in that regard. He’s not nearly as high-profile as other prospects out there, but Iupati played some impressive ball for Idaho and has the physical skills to be a success in the NFL for years.

FF Toolbox

Maurkice Pouncey, C, Florida

Sure, Big Ben holds the ball too long at times, but the o-line is to blame for his hits as well. Pouncey has received almost universal praise during the draft evaluation phase. While he can also play guard and swing out to right tackle, expect him to join the long list of great Steelers centers as he locks down that spot for the next decade. Cornerback Kyle Wilson would solve another need area. Despite the abrupt trade of Santonio Holmes to the Jets, the Steelers likely will wait until subsequent rounds to add more depth at receiver.

The Draft Matters

CB Patrick Robinson Florida State

With or without Troy Polamalu, the Steelers need another defensive back to help bring this defense together. Ike Taylor hasn’t been playing at a very high level and its obvious corner is a need. Patrick Robinson made some great plays in the Senior Bowl, but was also suspect at times. He has tons of potential and his hard-hitting nature makes him fit in well the defense in Pittsburgh.