2009 NFL Team Needs-Pittsburgh Steelers

Offensive Tackle: There is no more of a gaping hole in the Steelers arsenal than at left tackle.  There will likely be a huge run on tackles in the first round, which means Pittsburgh will have to take what’s left of the elite tackles. 

Defensive End: It is clear that Pittsburgh must get bigger and younger at end.   Furthermore, Aaron Smith is now on the wrong side of 30.  Look for them to snag a rush end on the first day of the draft.

Wide Receiver: Speaking of wrong side of 30, Hines Ward is beginning to pass his prime.   Plus, Limas Sweed was a bit of a dissappoinment last season. Therefore, they could afford to bring in more talent at wideout. 

Guard: When Alan Faneca left town, there was clearly a drop off in talent at the position. So Pittsburgh will likely take a guard at some point in the draft.

Running back: The Steelers have a lot of talent at running back. However, they have yet to find that bruising back since Jerome Bettis retired. Look for them to take a flier on a big back late in the draft. 

Draft Candidates: OT William Beatty, Connecticut, OT Eben Britton, Arizona, DE Jarron Gilbert, San Jose State, DE Michael Johnson, Georgia Tech, WR Deon Butler, Penn State, WR Aaron Kelly, Clemson, G Any Kemp, Wisconsin, G Paul Fanaika, Arizona State, RB P.J. Hill, Wisconsin, RB Herb Donaldson, Western Illinois