Sunday, April 27, 2008

Draft Results

Offense:
I think getting Mahan out of center was the biggest thing that could help the OL.  Hartwig will help immensely.  Given the Hartwig addition, the primary offensive needs entering the draft were (in no particular order):

1.  RB depth - the running game stopped after losing FWP
2.  WR depth - Ward, Holmes, Washington...and...and...oh...no one.
3.  OL depth

The Steelers got all of these covered with Mendenhall, Sweed and Hills.  Hills may project to guard, but he looks be a good tackle in the future.  It is amazing that Sweed lasted until the Steeler's second round pick.

Offensive draft grade:  A

Defense
Booger came into the Steelers and could not pass a physical.  Other than some ST players, the D has not had any FA activity.  So, the pre-draft needs are (in order):

1.  DL depth - when Smith went down, the run D suffered.  we need a young body who can play the 3-4 DE position if Keisel or Smith gets injured
2.  CB depth - someone who can start in a few years when Townsend finally retires or moves to safety
3.  MLB - Farrior is aging and Foote is decent, but not stellar.

Some people clamor about safety, but I think the FS position will be fine.

The LB position was the defensive position to get addressed most, partially because the best 3-4 DE in each round was gone before the Steelers picked.  Davis (UCLA) will most likely play outside as a pass rusher, so maybe Harrison is moving inside eventually?  Humpal is a ST pick, and ILB back-up.  Mundy is a safety backup and ST contributor.

The best D in the league last year got no help on the DL in depth.  Maybe Booger gets healthy and they sign him.  That will help.

Defensive Draft Grade:  C+

Overall grade:  B+

OL starting line-up:  Smith - Kemo - Hartwig - Colon - Starks
LB starting line-up:  Woodly - Foote - Farrior - Harrison