Overview of the 2018 Context and Steelers Needs
Entering the 2018 NFL Draft, the Pittsburgh Steelers faced several pressing needs despite a strong core established in the mid-2010s. After a 9–6–1 record in 2017 and an early playoff exit, Pittsburgh evaluated gaps on both sides of the ball. The offensive line required reinforcements, particularly along the interior line, while the secondary sought depth behind established starters. The running back room also needed bolstering due to injury concerns and a lack of reliable depth. Analysts debated whether the Steelers would prioritize immediate starters or select developmental projects that could grow within the system. This article synthesizes consensus mock drafts from reputable sources to clarify how the Steelers were projected to approach the 2018 draft.
General Draft Philosophy and Organizational Trends
The Steelers are historically methodical in the draft, emphasizing value, character, and fit within their scheme. They often target players who can extend the run, contribute in the passing game, and provide special teams reliability. In 2018, this philosophy translated into a focus on offensive line and defensive backs early, with later rounds reserved for positional depth and talent available at bargain prices. Sources consistently highlighted Pittsburgh’s willingness to trade within the first two rounds if the opportunity aligned with core needs. Understanding these tendencies helps contextualize most credible mock drafts for the 2018 class.
Notable Mock Drafts and Expert Projections
Leading outlets and draft analysts produced multiple mock drafts for the 2018 cycle, each reflecting unique methodologies and insider insights. While specific playmakers were often agreed upon in principle, projected round positions varied based on perceived value and team-specific needs. The table below summarizes key player targets, round expectations, and rationale commonly cited in prominent Steelers mock drafts during this period.
Projected Steelers 2018 Draft Targets Summary
| Player | Position | Projected Round | Projected Pick Range | Primary Rationale |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Landon Collins | S | 1 | 15–20 | Elite safety fit for scheme, leadership |
| Greg Gaines | DT | 1 | 20–25 | Interior line depth, run-stopping potential |
| Josh Jacobs | RB | 2 | 40–50 | Power back profile, complementary to Bell |
| Marquise Brown | WR | 3 | 70–80 | Route speed, stretch to vertical passing game | Devin Bush Jr. | LB | 3 | 80–90 | Hybrid linebacker/safety traits, versatility |
| John Simpson | OG | 4 | 100–110 | Zone-blocking proficiency, undersized but skilled |
| Denzel Mims | WR | 4 | 110–120 | Playmaking ability in red zone, contested catches |
Trade Scenarios and Value Considerations
Mock drafts frequently accounted for Pittsburgh’s potential willingness to trade within the first round to address the highest priority need. Scenarios often included moving from Compensatory Pick No. 2 in 2018, essentially a fourth-round compensatory selection, into the first round to reach a safety or edge rusher. The value of such trades depends on the availability of consensus top-tier prospects and how far Pittsburgh was projected to move up. Analysts weighed cost, positional urgency, and the depth chart trajectory of available players. These strategic calculations were central to most credible 2018 mock drafts involving the Steelers.
Positional Breakdown and Rationale
Offensive Line Needs
The interior offensive line was a consistent story entering 2018, with concerns about run blocking and pass protection against top-tier pressure schemes. Mock drafts projected targets like Greg Gaines to stabilize the middle, providing both run support and emergency pass protection. The value of selecting an interior lineman early aligns with Pittsburgh’s emphasis on durability and fit over pure athleticism.
Secondary and Safety Depth
The safety position remained a significant concern, with uncertainty at the starting strong safety role and depth behind established veterans. Projected picks like Landon Collins addressed a high-level, scheme-compatible safety who could contribute immediately and mentor younger players. Versatility and football IQ were emphasized traits in nearly all expert evaluations.
Running Back and Wide Receiver Depth
Behind star running back Le’Veon Bell, the backfield required reliable depth to manage workload and handle different defensive looks. Projected second-round target Josh Jacobs offered a power-running profile that complemented Bell’s skill set. On the perimeter, receivers like Marquise Brown and Denzel Mims were discussed for their ability to stretch defenses and provide reliable third-down targets.
How These Mocks Influenced Subsequent Draft Conversations
While mock drafts do not determine actual selections, they shape media narratives and fan expectations leading into the draft. For the 2018 Steelers, projections reinforced the narrative of a team prioritizing foundational needs—offensive line and defensive stability—over splashy name recognition. This focus influenced trade discussions, pre-draft visits, and ultimately informed how the final selection list was evaluated in real time. Understanding these projections provides context for interpreting Pittsburgh’s draft moves and their long-term roster implications.
Evaluating the Accuracy and Methodologies Behind Mock Drafts
Mock drafts vary in accuracy based on the analyst’s access to team evaluations, insider information, and personal biases. Reliable projections for the Steelers in 2018 generally aligned on priority positions but differed in round and pick specifics. Key factors included the team’s compensatory pick calculations, perceived depth at each position, and the availability of players with strong scheme fits. By reviewing multiple expert projections, observers can identify converging trends that represent the most durable and well-reasoned outlooks for Pittsburgh’s draft strategy.
Conclusion and Evergreen Takeaways
The 2018 Steelers mock draft landscape reflected a consistent set of needs and strategic considerations that remain instructive for evaluating NFL draft planning. Methodical targeting of interior offensive linemen, safety-depth solutions, and complementary skill-position players defined the consensus outlook. These projections underscore the importance of scheme fit, organizational philosophy, and value-based decision-making in the draft process. This analysis serves as a durable reference for understanding how teams like Pittsburgh approach multi-year roster construction through the draft.