NFL.com is reporting that Tomlin wants to trade up for Mike if he starts slipping in the draft (http://www.nfl.com/draft/story/09000d5d81f8040a/article/steelers-have-serious-designs-on-teaming-up-pouncey-brothers). This and a PFT version (http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/04/26/report-steelers-want-to-trade-up-pair-mike-with-maurkice/) recognize how unlikely this will be considering so many teams have O-line needs.
Which begs the question: Do we need Mike Pouncey?
OK, let's agree that we wouldn't be having this discussion if his name was Mike Jones. He's walking into the draft on his brother's coattails. And by all accounts he is not as good center as Maurkice.
I would like to see Mike in Black n Gold. Yes, it makes for a great story. But I have some stronger reasons.
Mike doesn't need to play center for the Steelers. He has the versatility needed to play up and down the line. Which will be a huge asset considering the O-line needed its own MASH unit in 2010.
Also, I have it stuck in my head that Mike has the same work ethic as Maurkice. First in, last to leave. Religiously studies film. Squad leadership. You know, the kind of things you want to hear about your quarterback. Again, that will serve us well.
Now correct me if I'm wrong but it seems to me this is an O-line in transition. When Sean Kugler came on board he switched to a zone protection strategy. That doesn't work as well with the bigger linemen that the Steelers have been recruiting. Maurkice is the kind of lineman you want for zone protection.
So the Steelers are going to want players in that mold. Players like Mike.
Whether they do move mountains to get Mike or not, it will be interesting to see how they fill O-line needs in the draft.
|
Author
Trading up for Mike Pouncey
