The 2024 NFL draft is still a long way off, but the needs of the Pittsburgh Steelers are already becoming clear as draft season approaches. The team is on the lookout for support along both the offensive and defensive lines, and the cornerback and inside linebacker positions are also areas of concern. Additionally, the quarterback position is a wildcard for the Steelers, depending on their assessment of Kenny Pickett’s future.
Dalton Miller of Pro Football Network has projected the Steelers to use their first-round pick to recruit Georgia offensive tackle Amarius Mims. Pairing Mims with Broderick Jones, who was drafted in 2023, could provide the Steelers with a clearer picture of how they can build a unit around Pickett to address his current concerns.
Mims, standing at 6-foot-7 and weighing 340 pounds, brings raw power and the potential to be a major mauler in the run game. Despite dealing with an ankle injury in the 2023 season, Mims showcased his unique abilities at Georgia, and teams looking for an offensive tackle with immense strength could find Mims to be an attractive prospect.
Bringing Mims on board, or recruiting any offensive tackle in the first round of the 2024 draft, to partner with Jones, could set the Steelers up for a decade of exceptional edge protection. Jones, a rookie, has already made a significant impact and earned a respectable player grade from Pro Football Focus this season.
The crucial question, however, is whether the Steelers will move Jones to left tackle if they target another offensive tackle in the first round. With the possibility of replacing Dan Moore Jr., if he does not fit into the team’s long-term plans, the Steelers’ approach to drafting Mims or a similar talent will be closely observed.
In conclusion, as the 2024 NFL draft approaches, the Steelers have some significant needs to address. Recruiting an offensive tackle like Amarius Mims could provide the team with the necessary support to strengthen their offensive line. The potential pairing of Mims and Broderick Jones could solidify the Steelers’ edge protection for the long term. As the draft season unfolds, the Steelers will undoubtedly be closely watched to see how they address their areas of need.
