Steelers 2016 Mock Draft
By Rich Donahue
Victor Ochi, Stony Brook Outside Linebacker
With James Harrison mulling retirement and Jarvis Jones in the last year of his deal, don’t be surprised if the Steelers add a pass rusher in the late rounds. Though he needs some development, Victor Ochi would bring great upside and potential to the pass rush.
Ochi is no house hold name. Hailing from Stony Brook, who plays in the CAA Conference of the FCS, he was a force to be reckon with since becoming a full-time starter in 2014. Over his career, Ochi tailed 23.5 sacks and 50.5 tackles for loss, leaving as the school’s all-time sack leader.
The CO-CAA Defensive Player of the Year spent his entire career at Stony Brock lining at right defensive end. It may be some time before Ochi gets legit right on the Steelers defense, but he has one of the best linebacker coaches to learn from in the league, Joey Porter.
An impressive East-West Shrine has positioned Ochi to become the first draft pick out of Stony Brook. In the game, he showed great pass rush skills and pursuit for the ball carrier, catching guys from behind 10 yards down the field. His high motor could benefit the Steelers special teams units while he adjusts playing outside linebacker.
Next: Sixth Round