2013 NFL Draft: Players the Pittsburgh Steelers should target during Day 2
By Matt Shetler
Running Backs
If one of the top two backs are on the board it may be tough to pass on them, but I’m not counting that Eddie Lacy or Jonathan Franklin will be available when the Steelers select. That being said, I would target a back in the third round, unless there is a run on them early in the second.
Here’s a look at six backs the Steelers should be looking at.
Eddie Lacy, RB, Alabama: Lacy is the most NFL-ready back and would certainly help the Steelers right away. However while they should give Lacy their due diligence, it would be shocking if he doesn’t go very early in Round 2.
Aug 30, 2012; Houston, TX, USA; UCLA Bruins running back Jonathan Franklin (23) runs for a touchdown against the Rice Owls during the first quarter at Rice Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brendan Maloney-USA TODAY Sports
Jonathan Franklin, RB, UCLA: Franklin is the guy I would love the Steelers to take, but he likely won’t be around. He’s the best prospect of the bunch and will be the first back in this class to make a Pro-Bowl.
Montee Ball, RB, Wisconsin: If Franklin is my top choice, Ball is a close second. While he doesn’t have great speed, he’s NFL-ready and is a tough runner who can carry a full share of a team’s carries. If he’s available in Round 3, the Steelers should be all over him.
Giovanni Bernard, RB, North Carolina: The Steelers could be looking at Bernard, but I’m not a big fan of the idea. He has great wheels and is the fastest back, but I’m concerned that he took all of his snaps in college from the shotgun. I’d be afraid that he has bust written all over him.
Le’Veon Bell, RB, Michigan State: Bell is certainly an option in the third round. He’s not real fast but he is the most powerful back in the class, something the Steelers have had success with in the past. I’m concerned that it will take him a while to pick things up as I’m not convinced he’s NFL-ready. I wouldn’t hate the pick, but I would much rather get my hands on Franklin or Ball.
Marcus Lattimore, RB, South Carolina: I absolutely love Lattimore for the Steelers, but his injury concerns seem too much of a risk at the moment. I would rather have the sure thing but Lattimore sure is intriguing.