2014 NFL Mock Draft Version 2.0 – Post Free Agency Edition
By Dave Searles
Jan 7, 2013; Miami, FL, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish defensive lineman Louis Nix III (9) reacts during the second half of the 2013 BCS Championship game against the Alabama Crimson Tide at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
15. Pittsburgh Steelers
Louis Nix III
Nose Tackle, Notre Dame
Previously: Marqise Lee (Wide Receiver, USC)
Giorgos:
The signings of Lance Moore and Darius Hayward-Bey allow the Pittsburgh Steelers to add a defensive player in the first round instead of a wideout. Louis Nix III is a prototypical 3-4 nose tackle and can be the anchor of the Steelers’ defensive line for the next years. He is massive player that takes away running lanes and commands double teams in order to be contained.
Dave:
Similar to the Bears, the Steelers could benefit from bolstering their line or focusing elsewhere. Cornerback was considered, but the pick came down to Louis Nix III or Marqise Lee. In the end, the Steelers pride themselves on being a nasty presence on defense, and you can’t get there without a stout line. Nix is a bit of a reach at this point of the Draft, but this is likely the only chance Pittsburgh has to land him.