Steelers 2016 Mock Draft

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Dec 7, 2014; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver A.J. Green (18) attempts to make a catch against Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Antwon Blake (41) and free safety Mike Mitchell (23) during the second half at Paul Brown Stadium. Pittsburgh Steelers defeat the Cincinnati Bengals 42-21. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports /

Jeremy Cash, Duke Safety

There are plenty of safeties the Steelers can target at this pick, but Duke’s Jeremy Cash has the highest ceiling in my opinion. Cash is not your typical safety. Throughout his career, he played near the line of scrimmage almost like a nickel corner. Playing this hybrid role allowed Cash to rack up over a 100 total tackles in each of his 3 seasons at Duke. He added 38 tackles for loss as well.

And those weren’t your average tackles. Cash tries to lay the wood each play, bringing a violent, competitive edge to a defense. He forced 9 fumbles in his career while recovering 5 fumbles. These great instincts not only benefit him in the run game, but in pass coverage.

Cash intercepted 5 passes and batted away 14 while he was at Duke. However, he did not record an interception in 2015, but was still named ACC Defensive Player of the Year.

Adding a safety like Cash will finally fill the void that was left by Troy Polamalu. Since Troy’s retirement, the Steelers have not been able to find a safety that can play in the box at a high level. Cash can do that and more for the Black & Gold for years to come.

Next: Fourth Round

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