Steelers Gab Grades the Teams Picks in the 2011 Draft

By Abe Munch

1st- Cameron Heyward, DE, Ohio State
2nd- Marcus Gilbert, OT, Florida
3rd- Curtis Brown, CB, Texas
4th- Cortez Allen, CB, Citadel
5th- Chris Carter, OLB, Fresno State
6th- Keith Williams, OG, Nebraska
7th- Baron Batch, RB, Texas Tech

Synopsis: The Steelers have always shown reliable players along their front seven on defense, but haven’t been able to find consistency in the secondary the past few years. With the possible loss of Ike Taylor it was important for the Steelers to address the cornerback position. Adding an offensive lineman who could step in immediately at either right or left tackle was also a goal.

Best Selection: Cameron Heyward. Heyward won’t have a hard time adjusting to his responsibilities in Pittsburgh, as he played a lot of the 5-technique position at Ohio State.
Heyward will immediately contribute in rotation with Brett Keisel and Ziggy Wood.

Biggest Risk: None. As usual the Steelers didn’t reach for needs and selected players that exhibit the on-field character they look for.

Sleeper: Chris Carter. If Carter was two inches taller he would be a 1st round pick. He’s a natural pass rusher with great balance who flashes explosiveness off the snap. He led Fresno State with 11 sacks last season, but could’ve had 20. He was in the backfield regularly.

Grade: B+
The Steelers are ‘old school’ with their draft methods. Even in the era of free agency they like to slowly and patiently work their players in to replace veterans. They don’t rush development and don’t add many players through free agency. Their first three picks were hits and I’d be surprised if they didn’t develop into starters.