2018 NFL Mock Draft: Opening Weekend Edition
By Jon Dove
29. Pittsburgh Steelers- Cameron Smith, LB, USC
When the Pittsburgh Steelers decided to let Lawrence Timmons leave via free agency they handed Vince Williams a starting job. Williams has seen his share of action over the years, but has mainly been an injury fill in and special teams player.
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He has the talent and smarts to succeed as a starter. However, moving him into the starting lineup hurts the Steelers depth at the position. This is an important note because the other starting inside linebacker, Ryan Shazier, has had his share of injury issues.
USC’s Cameron Smith is a heady and instinctive linebacker who would fit in well with the Steelers. He does a great job diagnosing post-snap information and finding the football. His instincts are enhanced thanks to his explosiveness.
Smith just has a knack for reading the play and flying to the football. He would really stand out working behind the stout Steelers defensive line.
Pittsburgh might find themselves in the market for a running back if they don’t come to a long-term agreement with Le’Veon Bell. He is a terrific player, but it would be a risky move for Pittsburgh to sign him to a big-money deal.