After trading out of the 1st round in 2020, the Pittsburgh Steelers hold the 24th overall pick this year and the team needs to come to terms with the possibility of playing without players like JuJu Smith-Schuster, James Conner and/or Alejandro Villanueva. It's tough to imagine the team loses all three of these key players (fingers crossed) as they have played significant roles on and off the field, but their 1st round pick could help fill the void at one of those positions. Unfortunately the harsh business side of the league could rear its' ugly head this time of year.
The Steelers offensive line could potentially see the most new faces with long-time center Maurkice Pouncey entering retirement as well as Matt Feiler and Villanueva possibly being lost via free agency. This being said the sights should be set on prospect Alex Leatherwood out of Alabama. Not the Alabama prospect that has been associated with the Steelers in most mock drafts, but the Steelers need help on the line more than they do at any other position, including running back.
While Najee Harris is a tremendous talent, he does not give the Steelers what they need at this point in time and that is protection for Ben Roethlisberger who undoubtedly offers the best chances at ring No.7 with this possibly being his last season. If Pittsburgh wants to get the most out of Roethlisberger while he is still able to play, they'll be doing themselves a favor adding Leatherwood to the offensive line.
The addition of Leatherwood would give the Steelers an extremely well-rounded player and his experience playing in big moments could give the chance to make an immediate impact as a starter. At 6'6" 312 pounds, Leatherwood brings forth a big, athletic frame with speed at all levels in pass protection and run-blocking which is what the Steelers need desperately at this point. Leatherwood's credentials speak for themselves and now it's time for him to take his game to the next level.
GM Kevin Colbert stated the team's first option going into the new season is retaining free agents Feiler and Villanueva, but added their needs at offensive line could be resolved in the draft. The risk in drafting Leatherwood looks to be on the low side compared to other prospects that will be going near him as projections suggest. The combine is still upon us, but Leatherwood's experience and talent could be exactly what Pittsburgh needs to help make them legitimate contenders this upcoming season.
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