2014 NFL Mock Draft: Pittsburgh Steelers Select Oklahoma State CB Justin Gilbert
By Matt Shetler
13. St. Louis Rams
Player Name: Calvin Pryor
Position, School: S, Louisville
Sure the Rams could use a wide receiver here, but there is also a big need at safety. Their defense came on at the end of last season, but they really need a safety to pair with T.J. McDonald.
Pryor’s fierce hitting style and aggressive coverage tendencies are perfect for the St. Louis defense. More importantly he fills a huge need.
Aug 31, 2013; Houston, TX, USA; Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Justin Gilbert (4) warms up before a game against the Mississippi State Bulldogs at Reliant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
14. Chicago Bears
Player Name: Darqueze Dennard
Position, School: CB, Michigan State
With Clinton-Dix and Pryor off the board, the Bears must target either the cornerback spot or the defensive line here. Donald is also off the board and there is a huge drop off from him to the next best defensive tackle.
Chicago was able to re-sign Tim Jennings, but Charles Tillman‘s contract is expiring soon. The Bears have to deal with Aaron Rodgers and Matthew Stafford twice per year, so targeting a solid corner like Dennard makes sense.
15. Pittsburgh Steelers
Player Name: Justin Gilbert
Position, School: CB, Oklahoma State
My fifth mock has the Steelers selecting a fifth different player. This time it really fits a need. While I’m sure the Steelers would rather have Dennard, Gilbert could be the next best thing.
I’m concerned about his tackling ability, or lack thereof, which may not make Gilbert the best fit with the Steelers, but even though they tend to not select cornerbacks often in the first round, the Oklahoma State product makes sense here.
He’s big at 6’0″ and 200 pounds but also plays with the closing speed to attack the ball. Gilbert could become a No.1 corner early in his career and is a safe pick here for the Steelers.
16. Dallas Cowboys
Player Name: Timmy Jernigan
Position, School: DT, Florida State
Jernigan’s play was inconsistent at times during the season, but his play in the national championship game has his stock rising and he could turn into a steal here for the Cowboys.
They need a defense lineman badly and while this is a bit of a reach, Jerry Jones does that from time to time and Jernigan’s potential and upside could be too much to pass on here.