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Ray Fittipaldo's Steelers chat: 02.28.23
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Ray Fittipaldo
2:10
He's expected to test really well at the combine so his stock could rise. But as of now yes I think he's in play for the Steelers
Guest
2:11
Hi Ray. How do you feel about the Branch kid from Alabama? If the top tackles and cornerbacks are off the board is he a consideration at 17?
Ray Fittipaldo
2:11
I like him. He's more of a slot CB who can also play safety. But yes, he's a top DB prospect in this draft.
Guest
2:11
As much as DL and edge depth a priority, I think we will see further investment in KP as the franchise focus.  Would you be surprised with big Georgia TE at 32 if around?
Ray Fittipaldo
2:12
That might be high for him. He's the best blocking tight end in the draft, but he's not a refined pass catcher at this point. But they might need a good blocking TE if they don't re-sign Zach Gentry.
kevin in Punxy
2:13
Hi Ray.  I remember seeing, about a month ago, an OL from a I-AA school in the Midwest, who was rated rather highly, but don't remember seeing him lately.  Does this ring any bells for you?
Ray Fittipaldo
2:13
Cody Mauch from North Dakota State? He's still considered a top prospect. You mostly see him in Round 2 mocks.
Quaker Mike
2:13
Ray: which ILBs do you think may still be available for pick #49?
Ray Fittipaldo
2:14
Hard to say. Drew Sanders is looking like a first-rounder. But any of those other guys like Trent Simpson and some of the others likely would be there at 49.
Mike from DC
2:14
Why are you higher on Jones and Skoronski over Paris Johnson?
Ray Fittipaldo
2:17
Paris Johnson has potential, but he hasn't put it all together yet. When you watch him he lets DL get into his chest. He's not great with his hands. Unless he gets with an OL coach that can correct those issues I think that's something that could be exposed in the NFL. And if you watch Jones move, he's better with his feet mirroring. It's just very natural for him. As for Skoronski, he's a great technician. Just solid all around. It's hard to find any weaknesses in his game. People say he has short arms, but I still think he can be a left tackle.
Steve in Canton
2:17
Ray, based on a previous answer in this chat, would you pass on DL Siaki Ika, of Baylor, and DL Mazi Smith, of Mich., in rounds 2 & 3?
Ray Fittipaldo
2:19
Mazi Smith is a pretty polarizing prospect. I don't really see what others do. Apparently, he's going to test off the charts here. But on tape, I don't see it. Ika is an old-school nose tackle. He's not going to provide much in terms of pass rush so I wouldn't take him at 49. I probably would at 81 but I doubt he'll be there at 81.
Steve in Canton
2:19
Ray, good chance the Steelers draft DL Calijah Kancey of Pitt? Kenny needs a teammate, and I doubt Steelers draft WR Jordan Addison.
Ray Fittipaldo
2:19
Kancey is going to be talked about a lot this week. I think he might climb up draft boards despite his size.
Wayward
2:20
Ray, where do you see the value of 17 running out as it relates to OT?  Skoronski, Johnson & and Jones all worthy at that point?  Wasn't sure where a guy like Harrison falls but was thinking more at 32.
Ray Fittipaldo
2:20
I think you'd get a better IOL at 32 than the second wave of tackles. There is a fairly significant dropoff after the top three.
kevin in Punxy
2:21
Ray, I have perused about 8 mock drafts and it seemed that if the Steelers would move up 2 spaces, to 15, it might make a difference in getting a top 3 CB or LT.  Does this make sence to you?  Thanks.
Ray Fittipaldo
2:22
I've noticed that too. It seems like Porter and Gonzalez and  Witherspoon are in that 12-16 range. And you wouldn't have to give up a ton to move up a spot or two. Maybe just a third.
Steve in Canton
2:22
Do the Steelers pass on drafting a WR altogether, since Calvin Austin III should be returning to action?
Ray Fittipaldo
2:22
They could, but I think they need to add one either through free agency or the draft just in case he doesn't pan out.
Steve in Canton
2:23
Ray, what's the status of Myles Jack? He seems a bit pricy for an oft injured guy. If the Steelers move on from him, ILB jumps up the list of needs w/ D. Bush already a goner.
Ray Fittipaldo
2:23
I wouldn't say he's oft-injured. He was banged up late in the year. They don't have much else on the roster, do they?
2:24
OK that's all the time I have this week. I have to go do some interviews here in Indy. We'll have coverage from here al week.
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