NFL First Round Mock Draft, Seahawks get defensive

Pick #25: Pittsburgh Steelers – Eli Apple, CB, Ohio State

This is one of the no-brainers of the first round. The Steelers were atrocious in pass coverage last year, giving up over 4,300 yards through the air in 2015. Their offense is elite, while the back end of the defense was at times laughable.

Apple is a player the Seahawks might be coveting one pick later, as he fits that mold of long, physical corner back. Standing 6’1″ and weighing in at 200 pounds, Apple has long arms and a rock hard, athletic frame.

He shows outstanding ability in coverage, good ball skills, and is no stranger to big game environment while playing or the Buckeyes. When the ball is in the air he goes after it like it’s his, and he’s also a willing and physical tackler, not afraid to get upfield and take on blockers and ball carriers in the running game.

If anything, he plays too physical at times in press coverage and may have to learn the nuisances of using his hands in the NFL without drawing too much attention from the referees.

Apple may ultimately be better than the three other CB’s drafted ahead of him, and is a bit of a steal for Pittsburgh in this spot, especially given how desperately they need a young cover corner.

Next: On the clock: Seattle