Prospect Visits

Draft prospects have begun to make their visits to teams. Teams can host up to 30 prospects before draft day. So far the Steelers have hosted three prospects. While this might not seem like a big deal, it’s important not to discount anyone who visits the Steelers from the mix. Last year the Steelers hosted Dennis Dixon who they drafted in the fourth round, and Jonathan Stewart, who went to Carolina a few picks ahead of when we took Mendenhall. Before the draft last year, everyone was predicting that we’d go O-line or D-line, but we went Running Back instead. Looking at who the Steelers host as prospects is a good indication of who is high on their draft board.

Mike Thomas (WR-Arizona)

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NFLHouse Position Rank: 15

Ian’s Take: Thomas is a little undersized but he set the Pac-10 record for career receptions. He has good hands and had an impressive performance in the Las Vegas Bowl (the only game I can remember seeing him in) this past year against BYU. He’s also a punt returner, which bodes well for the Steelers. He would provide immediate depth at WR and be a good addition to the team.

Projected round: 4-7th

Phil Loadholt (OT-Oklahoma)

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NFLHouse Position Rank: 7

Ian’s Take: Loadholt is a massive prospect, at 6’8″ 335, he is very much in the mold of Max Starks. Oklahoma had a good O-line last year and Loadholt is a good prospect. He might be gone by the time the Steelers second round pick comes around, but if he’s still there the Steelers will probably take a look at him.

Projected round: 2nd-3rd

Joe Burnett (CB-Central Florida)

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NFLHouse Position Rank: 22

Ian’s Take: Burnett is the type of package player (CB/KR) that the Steelers are looking for. He is a little undersized at 5’9″ but would primarily see time as a returner next year. Could be a late-round steal.

Projected Round: 5th-7th