With so many mock drafts released in recent weeks, sometimes it is fun to add your own little twist. Today, NFL.com’s Adam Rank did just that. He had his own first-round mock draft in which he drafted for each team based on what he would do if he was in charge instead of what he thinks will happen.
In this mock draft, the Pittsburgh Steelers got very, very lucky with arguably the best tackle prospect dropping to them at 17. Ohio State’s Paris Johnson Jr. somehow was on the board at 17 in Rank’s draft, and he echoed the sentiment of how awesome this would be for the Steelers.
“If this dude is still available for you at this junction, run — don’t walk — to get the pick in,” wrote Rank. “This long, athletic bookend is going to be a star. I’m a Bears guy, and I wouldn’t mind if Chicago took him at No. 9. You cannot resist him here, especially considering your offensive line has been lacking in recent years.”
At 6’6″, 313 pounds, and arm length of 36 1/8″, Johnson could be the left tackle the Steelers have been crying for and help in the offensive line rebuild. He also has experience playing at a high level, starting 23 consecutive games for the Buckeyes his last two seasons.
Johnson isn’t only and athletic freak, but also a decorated football player. He was a five-star recruit coming out of high school and was a consensus first-team All-American this past year. As Rank said, if Johnson Jr. is available at 17 you run to the podium. In fact, if he is available then I bet the Steelers might turn in their draft card in record speed.
Unfortunately for the Steelers, Johnson being around at 17 is a pipe dream. Teams place a premium on offensive tackles, in particular left tackles. With teams above Pittsburgh being offensive line needy he will likely be selected before the Steelers have the chance to.
Sometimes though it is fun to have unrealistic mock drafts. For as many Joey Porter Jr. to the Steelers mocks there are, a Paris Johnson Jr. to the Steelers mock feels like a breath of fresh air.
Even if it is unlikely.
