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Steelers 2016 Mock Draft

By Rich Donahue

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Nov 8, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; The Pittsburgh Steelers defense stops Oakland Raiders running back Latavius Murray (28) during the second half at Heinz Field. The Steelers won the game, 38-35. Mandatory Credit: Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 8, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; The Pittsburgh Steelers defense stops Oakland Raiders running back Latavius Murray (28) during the second half at Heinz Field. The Steelers won the game, 38-35. Mandatory Credit: Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports /

Vernon Butler, Louisiana Tech Defensive Lineman

Though he may be long gone before the Steelers select on Day Two of the draft, Louisiana Tech defensive lineman Vernon Butler could be the final piece to the puzzle on the defensive line.  Butler possesses tremendous versatility, playing everywhere on the line for the Bulldogs.

To go along with this versatility, his combination of speed off the ball and upper body strength made him almost unblockable.  This was evident in the Senior Bowl.  Butler racked 28.5 tackles for loss, including 22.5 as a starter over the past 2 seasons.

Even when double teamed, Butler is able to either fight it off or eat the double preventing the offensive linemen from climbing to the second level of the defense.  Butler also has great hand movement and placement.  This not only benefits him in the run game, but in pass rush situations.

Butler can rush from anywhere on the defensive line thanks to a bull rush and swim move that devastated Conference USA linemen.  Like Stephon Tuitt, Butler may need some seasoning before he unleashes his full potential.  Still, Butler falling to the Steelers at this pick could be the steal of the draft.

Next: Third Round

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