Should the Steelers draft a LT?

Let’s hope that both of the birds they kill with that one stone are Ravens.

 

Fair!

 

what are your thoughts on austin barber or JC Davis as tackle picks?

 

I'm hearing reports that Jones had some type of neck fusion surgery.

 

Of the two, give me Austin Barber. JC Davis has severe contact balance and hand placement issues. If anything, he would be better served as a Guard Candidate for that is where his power and size can shine. That said, ideally?! Neither as Barber's main issues for me stem from a lack of functional strength along with leverage issues that rear their ugly head once he goes up against more athletic and/or nuanced EDGE players. Inside moves are his biggest weakness despite the starting capable athleticism, size and length. Recovery speed is also in need of a tune up.

 

Yes, last third rd pick .

 

I agree that LG is currently a bigger need than LT (pending UFA).

But LT is still a reasonably big need IMO. I know you love Cook, but the sample size is just too small to know if he's going to pan out. I'm all for giving him a chance to compete for the starting job.

But I don't want to just hand him the position. And if Jones isn't going to be ready for the start of the season (sounds like Kahn says it's unclear), that's what we'll be doing (again pending whatever happens in UFA).

Drafting OL is never a bad move. Because (1) you need so many and (2) everyone is always looking for at least good depth, so you can always flip them for something or let them walk for comp picks.

 

Scouting Report: Strengths

• Exceptional pass protector with elite technique and footwork, consistently stonewalling edge rushers in one-on-one situations
• Demonstrates excellent lateral agility and quick feet, allowing him to mirror speedy defenders and maintain proper positioning
• Possesses a strong anchor and core strength, enabling him to absorb bull rushes and maintain pocket integrity
• Shows good hand placement and punch timing, effectively neutralizing defenders' initial moves
• Displays high football IQ, quickly recognizing and adjusting to stunts and blitz packages
• Exhibits impressive durability, playing nearly every snap over his last two seasons at New Mexico
• Demonstrates versatility, having played both tackle positions and showing potential to kick inside to guard if needed
• Consistently finishes blocks with a nasty streak, driving defenders off the ball in the run game

Scouting Report: Weaknesses

• Somewhat undersized for an NFL tackle, potentially limiting his effectiveness against larger, more powerful edge defenders
• Can struggle with speed rushers who have an elite first step, occasionally getting beat around the edge
• Needs to improve consistency in run blocking, particularly in maintaining blocks through the whistle
• May require time to adjust to the speed and complexity of NFL defenses after playing in the Mountain West and one year in the Big Ten
• Has limited experience against top-tier pass rushers, which could lead to a steeper learning curve at the next level

Scouting Report: Summary
Davis projects as a developmental tackle with starting potential in the NFL. His exceptional pass-blocking skills and quick feet make him an intriguing prospect for teams employing zone-blocking schemes. While he may need time to bulk up and refine his technique against elite competition, Davis has the tools to become a reliable starter at either tackle spot.

His ability to process information quickly and adapt to different defensive looks will serve him well as he transitions to the pro game. Teams willing to invest in his development could find themselves with a steal, as Davis has shown steady improvement throughout his college career.

As he enters the draft, Davis will need to prove he can maintain his high level of play against NFL-caliber edge rushers.

Draft Profile: Bio
J.C. Davis, a 6'5", 307-pound offensive tackle from Illinois, has taken an unconventional path to NFL Draft consideration. Hailing from Oakland, California, Davis initially played as a defensive tackle in high school before transitioning to the offensive line at Contra Costa College. His rapid development led him to New Mexico, where he became a dominant force at left tackle.

At New Mexico, Davis started all 24 games over two seasons, earning All-Mountain West First Team honors in 2023. His consistent performance and durability caught the attention of Power Five programs, leading to his transfer to Illinois for his final season of eligibility.

After transferring to Illinois, Davis continued to impress. He was named to the Athlon Preseason All-Big Ten Third Team and Phil Steele Preseason All-Big Ten Fourth Team. His performance at Illinois solidified his status as a legitimate NFL prospect, showcasing his ability to compete against top-tier Big Ten competition.

Height: 6-4 (17%*) Weight: 322 (68%*)
Hands: 10 1/8 (53%*) Arm: 34 1/4 (53%*)
Forty: 5.16 (C) (71%*) Ten YD: 1.78 (C) (56%*)
Vert: 30.5 (C) (79%*) Broad: 99 (C) (30%*)

long arms. i do think this kid would have some upside if campon can work with him some. has a lot to work with.