With The First Pick
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2018 NFL Mock Draft: Early June Edition

By Jon Dove

Dec 21, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; Wyoming Cowboys quarterback Josh Allen (17) looks to pass during the third quarteragainst the Brigham Young Cougars at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 21, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; Wyoming Cowboys quarterback Josh Allen (17) looks to pass during the third quarteragainst the Brigham Young Cougars at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 2, 2017; Pasadena, CA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions tight end Mike Gesicki (88) makes a catch for a touchdown against USC Trojans defensive back Adoree’ Jackson (2) and defensive back Leon McQuay III (22) during the second quarter of the 2017 Rose Bowl game at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 2, 2017; Pasadena, CA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions tight end Mike Gesicki (88) makes a catch for a touchdown against USC Trojans defensive back Adoree’ Jackson (2) and defensive back Leon McQuay III (22) during the second quarter of the 2017 Rose Bowl game at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports /

27. Pittsburgh Steelers- Mike Gesicki, TE, Penn State

The tight end position has always been something Ben Roethlisberger got involved in the passing attack. His favorite target, Heath Miller, has retired and the Pittsburgh Steelers already released potential replacement Ladarius Green.

Youngster Jesse James has established himself as a solid option, but he lacks the explosiveness to attack the seam. Pittsburgh could target another Penn State product in Mike Gesicki to bring more speed.

Gesicki is coming off a terrific season where he showed the ability to make plays down the field. He uses his combination of size, quickness and strong hands to win in contested situations. His skill set makes him a matchup nightmare.

Related Story: Mike Gesicki Scouting Report

Pittsburgh’s passing attack is already tough to stop, but would more dangerous with Gesicki in the mix. It’s hard to imagine a defense capable of shutting down Antonio Brown, Martavius Bryant, Le’Veon Bell, Gesicki, James and others.

The only knock on Gesicki is that he struggles as a blocker. It’s something that could cause him to fall on draft day.

Pittsburgh could use some insurance at the running back position where Le’Veon Bell is looking for a new contract. His injury and suspension history make this situation more complicated than it looks on the surface.

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