As the Pittsburgh Steelers gear up for the 2024 NFL Draft, the anticipation and stakes are high, particularly with their No. 20 pick. With a clear aim to bolster their lineup and reinforce their Super Bowl aspirations, the Steelers find themselves at a crucial juncture.
The choices they make could either propel them to the heights of NFL success or trap them in the quagmire of mediocrity. In this pivotal moment, let’s explore the most promising prospect and the riskiest gamble Pittsburgh could face in their upcoming draft decision.
The Prime Candidate: JC Latham
Among the talents vying for a spot in the NFL, JC Latham stands out as a quintessential fit for the Steelers offensive line. Known for his robust play and versatility, Latham could bring much-needed dynamism to Pittsburgh’s front.
His ability to play both tackle and potentially slide into the guard position makes him an invaluable asset. His prowess in the trenches could be exactly what coach Mike Tomlin needs to fortify the offensive line and enhance the ground game crucial for playoff success.
Drafting Latham, however, is not without its challenges. The Steelers may need a stroke of luck to secure him at the 20th pick, given his high value. Despite concerns about his sustainability at left tackle, Latham’s overall impact and adaptability make him an optimal choice. This selection could significantly uplift the Steelers’ offensive strategy, allowing them to reclaim their dominant stature in the NFL.
Top OL in the 2024 NFL Draft
1.Joe Alt OT
2.Olumuyiwa Fashanu OT
3.JC Latham OT
4.Taliese Fuaga OT
5.Troy Fautanu OT
6.Jackson Powers-Johnson C
7.Amarius Mims OT
8.Graham Barton OT
9.Tyler Guyton OT
10.Connor Beebe OG pic.twitter.com/vqWucU3ghU— Blitz Banter (@blitzbanter_) April 20, 2024
The Questionable Pick: Graham Barton
On the flip side, Graham Barton emerges as a contentious choice for the Steelers. While Barton has shown potential during his tenure at Duke, boasting decent size and agility, he might not be the powerhouse Pittsburgh needs right now.
His style, marked more by finesse than force, could clash with the Steelers’ traditional, gritty approach to football. This discrepancy is amplified by Barton’s injury history and the Steelers’ acute need for a formidable presence at left tackle—a role Barton may struggle to fulfill.
Selecting Barton could therefore be seen as a misstep for Pittsburgh, especially given the critical need to optimize every draft pick to build a championship-caliber team. His finesse playstyle and past injuries raise valid concerns about his fit with the Steelers’ aggressive and physical football philosophy.
Pittsburgh Steelers’ Strategic Decisions Ahead
As the draft approaches, the Steelers’ decision-making will be under intense scrutiny. The choice between a high-impact player like JC Latham and a riskier bet like Graham Barton encapsulates the broader strategic challenges facing Pittsburgh. The team’s ability to discern and select a player who not only fits their immediate needs but also aligns with their long-term goals will be crucial.
The 2024 NFL Draft represents a defining moment for the Steelers. Choosing wisely could set them on a path toward reclaiming their place among the NFL’s elite, while a misstep could prolong their struggles. The stakes are undeniably high, and the decisions made at this draft could resonate for years to come in the hallowed halls of Heinz Field.
Source: Fansided
