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2017 NFL Mock Draft: First-round projections after Week 11

By Connor Muldowney

Nov 12, 2016; Clemson, SC, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) passes the ball during the first half against the Pittsburgh Panthers at Clemson Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 12, 2016; Clemson, SC, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) passes the ball during the first half against the Pittsburgh Panthers at Clemson Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 12, 2016; Athens, GA, USA; Auburn Tigers defensive tackle Montravius Adams (1) and defensive lineman Carl Lawson (55) sack Georgia Bulldogs quarterback Jacob Eason (10) during the second quarter at Sanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 12, 2016; Athens, GA, USA; Auburn Tigers defensive tackle Montravius Adams (1) and defensive lineman Carl Lawson (55) sack Georgia Bulldogs quarterback Jacob Eason (10) during the second quarter at Sanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /

18. player. 55. . LB/DE. Auburn. Carl Lawson

Lawrence Timmons and Jarvis Jones are in the final year of their contracts which means that the Steelers will need to address the linebacker positions. While Carl Lawson isn’t your typical linebacker, he is a defensive end hybrid who could play both positions, if need be.

Pittsburgh has been one of the most physical defensive teams in the league and they keep getting younger. The Steelers addressed the secondary early in the draft last year with the selection of Miami’s Artie Burns, an elite cornerback. He has played well this season and that just goes to show rookies can have major impacts on defense.

Lawson would be a nice addition to a front-seven that is getting older. The junior end/linebacker is one of the most disruptive forces in the country and has a knack for getting into the backfield. In fact, he has recorded 10 tackles for loss and 8.5 sacks this season. His numbers are all improved from last year and he is likely going to make the jump to the NFL this year.

The edge rusher needs a little work on his techniques and to become a full-time defensive lineman in the NFL, but he has the potential to be special. He is strong, big and aggressive and he would instantly help the league’s worst pass-rushing team, statistics-wise.

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