The Steelers have had the same GM (Kevin Colbert) for 16 years and head coach (Mike Tomlin) for 9 years. This makes predicting their drafts much easier. With that, I present:
Steelers 2016 Draft Primer
Picks: 25 1-25, 58 2-27, 89 3-26, 123 4-25, 220 6-45, 229 7-8, 246 7-25
Needs: Defense, all positions (CB, S, DL, EDGE, ILB)
What might the Pittsburgh Steelers do in the 2016 NFL draft? Let's examine the issues.
The Steelers own one of the most prolific and explosive offenses in the league. Their defense is bad in places, young and lacking in depth.
Don't listen to the pundits who simply look at recent issues and try and plug a player into their mocks. Despite the suspension of Martavis Bryant and the loss of Kelvin Beachum in free agency, the Steelers are just fine at both of their positions. In fact, after the beginning portion of free agency, I'd guess that 20 of the 25 offensive roster spots are mortal locks (barring injuries). Sure, there will be some battles at the end of the roster, like third tight end or fifth wide reciever, but there are no needs. The only true open spot on the offensive roster is backup quarterback; I suspect Pittsburgh will sign a cheap vet if they don't draft a developmental guy.
The defensive side of the roster is another story, altogether. Sure, there aren't any obvious holes but there are plenty of spots that need improvement. There is little depth on the defensive line and an opening at nose tackle. The outside linebacker position needs someone ready to take James Harrison's spot and possibly Jarvis Jones', as well. Lawrence Timmons is entering the final season on his contract at inside linebacker. The cornerbacks are underwhelming, although last year's second round pick, Senquez Golson will be able to play this season. Strong safety also needs an upgrade.
With all of this said, I expect the Steelers to select the best available defensive player, not only with their first round pick, but probably with 5 or 6 of their 7 total picks. Offensively, the Steelers have been showing a lot of interest in some lower end qb's and tackles. I could see them using a fourth and a sixth on these positions.
Some notes on how the Steelers draft:
They rarely take small school (non Power 5 conference) guys in the first round. The last being Ben Roethlisberger in 2004.
They haven't drafted a cornerback in the first round since 1997.
There has been a new found focus on athleticism in drafting.
Won't be averse to picking up players who seem to be 'falling' in the draft.