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Brian Batko's Steelers chat: 04.05.21
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pdxJaxon
2:49
Hey Bats,
Hope you had a GREAT Easter.
I see conflicting reports of the importance of the OLine needs, specifically between Tackle and Center.
Which position, between the two, is most important to draft early all else remaining equal ?
(Obviously if a "cant pass up" Prospect is available at any point, anything can happen)
Brian Batko
2:51
Hey buddy, I did have a tremendous one. It's worth a debate, but I'd probably take the side of tackle. Those are the guys who are protecting your most important player from the Myles Garretts and TJ Watts of the world. I'd probably rank the importance of O-linemen as: LT, RT, C, RG, LG.
James
2:52
I know all the draft stuff will be high heading to 4/29. I wonder if the Steelers would consider a QB in the 1st if one of them falls like Rodgers did back in the day.
Brian Batko
2:52
That sounds like something we'll be writing about before the draft, so, keep an eye out. With the way the NFL is nowadays, it's always worth a look
davesdogs
2:54
So what happens if a franchise is not in compliance with the sal cap...
Brian Batko
2:54
Pretty sure they get fined a lot of money.
2:55
Plus, the league looks at trades/signings/etc. and doesn't approve them if they aren't in compliance, I believe.
Alan
2:55
Do you think the Steelers draft a center in the first few rounds?
Brian Batko
2:55
I'm going to guess yes.
Hartner
2:56
Brian, love the chats. Did you ever play football growing up? Do you have any official scouting or coaching experience? What qualifies any journalist to form opinions on professional athletes or even a draft process?
Brian Batko
2:58
Thanks, Hartner. I did not play football. But I'm a journalist first and foremost, not a scout or a coach. So, my job is to report on the game, the players, the decisions. I'd say it's up to the readers to decide whether they want to put stock into our opinions. Personally, I don't really try to get too deep into the schematics and things of that nature, because I'd just be trying to fake it until I make it at that point. Plenty of writers give their opinions on movies and music even if they've never directed a film or played a guitar.
Alaska Steeler
2:59
Maybe I woke up on the right side of the bed, but I just don't get all the negativity about this team.  Yeah we lost Bud, but having no Dupree is what we looked like the first 3 years of his career.  Plug in a stud RB along with a fresh start at OC and I think we are better than last year.  Have I fallen on my head, or does this argument hold water?
Brian Batko
3:00
You're entitled to that opinion. But it's not just Bud Durpee who's gone. Mike Hilton was productive. Vince Williams was a natural in his role. Steven Nelson was solid, steady, durable. And on the offensive side, say what you want about Al Villanueva, but quality left tackles don't just fall off of trees. Someone has to be up for the challenge there, whether it's a rookie or a current Steeler.
3:01
But hey, it's never bad to end the chat on some optimism. We had to go all the way to Alaska to find it, but no matter. Thanks to all for participating. Ray Fittipaldo will be back tomorrow when he's done covering Penguins practices.
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