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2018 NFL Draft: Full Round 1 mock for all 32 teams amid NFL Scouting Combine

By Peter Panacy

PHILADELPHIA, PA - APRIL 27: (L-R) Thomas Davis of the Carolina Panthers looks on as Commissioner of the National Football League Roger Goodell speaks during the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft at the Philadelphia Museum of Art on April 27, 2017 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Jeff Zelevansky/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, PA - APRIL 27: (L-R) Thomas Davis of the Carolina Panthers looks on as Commissioner of the National Football League Roger Goodell speaks during the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft at the Philadelphia Museum of Art on April 27, 2017 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Jeff Zelevansky/Getty Images) /
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player. 55. . EDGE. UTSA. Marcus Davenport. 28

One of the biggest needs the Pittsburgh Steelers have this offseason is trying to find a replacement for injured linebacker Ryan Shazier.

Shazier’s tragic back injury was a major blow, as the talented linebacker was among the best locking down the interior of Pittsburgh’s second level of defense.

At this stage of the NFL Draft, there isn’t a lot of value for inside backers. But the Steelers could make a move to grab some pass-rushing help to supplement last year’s high-profile pick, EDGE T.J. Watt.

There are a few big boards listing UTSA edge rusher Marcus Davenport as high as a top-10 pick, where others consider him a late first-round selection. A strong NFL Scouting Combine should solidify things a bit, but Pittsburgh would be more than happy to grab him here.

Davenport is a bit raw. But in a weaker edge-rushing class, Davenport can afford the ability to develop his skills while not be asked to be the guy up front on defense right away.