The 2016 NFL Combine is in the books and the Pittsburgh Steelers’ officials now return home to breakdown what they’ve learned and seen over the last few days.
The last day focused on the defensive backs and the Steelers got some good news and perhaps some bad depending upon the point of view. A couple of cornerbacks that a week ago would have more than likely been there at 25 for the Steelers probably elevated themselves too high for the Steelers’ blood. Ohio State’s Eli Apple and Houston’s William Jackson III both excelled in all areas which is great for them but maybe not so great for the Steelers.
Two safeties that the Steelers were definitely paying close attention to Monday were Miles Killebrew of Southern Utah and Darian Thompson of Boise State. While neither figured to find their way into the first round both did little to really impress. Thompson came in slower than expected at 4.69 and Killebrew appears to be stuck in my opinion. I don’t know that I’d trust him in coverage but I’m not sure he’s able to play around the line of scrimmage real well either.
[Update:] Tony Pauline of walterfootball.com reported that Thompson was sick for almost the entire combine. He actually dropped several pounds while in Indianapolis.
As always, this is just the combine where it’s always hard to gauge what a guy can do in pads but they wouldn’t hold this event if it didn’t mean something.
Tweet of the Day… DWill in the Land of Pharaohs.
Just thinking about what happens when you make that jump outside that box and enjoy the possibilities! #getout pic.twitter.com/V3uRrTnDLn
— DeAngelo Williams (@DeAngeloRB) March 1, 2016
Two guys who I thought looked better than advertised Monday were Miami CB Arti Burns and Auburn CB Jonathan Jones. I’m not sure where both will go in the draft but they were both very fast and very quick. Jones’ problem as I see it for the Steelers’ is his size. He’s just 5′ 9″ and I think the Steelers have seen enough of that lately.
While I don’t think it will happen, the Steelers could have an option at tight end with Coby Fleener. Rumors on several sites are suggesting the Colts aren’t exactly running to the table to re-sign him.
Most college pro days begin over the next week and run through the month of March. We’ll do out best to keep you posted on where the Steelers are spending their time.
Have a great day Steeler Nation!
