By the looks of it, draft pundits have a new prediction for the Steelers first round selection - Patrick Willis, Inside Linebacker out of Ole' Miss.
There's been a lot of speculation around the Steelers draft needs, mainly focused on three areas - Offensive Line, Linebacker and Cornerback (although it's widely acknowledged that a third running back could also be a possibility), with Linebacker popping up most often. As I've mentioned before, we've heard a lot of Jarvis Moss, Lawrence Timmons, due to their versatility, but Willis (at least as far as I know) is a new name to pop up.
After looking over some of the information available about the 6'1", 242 pound LB coming off of a Butkus Award-winning Senior season, I think in terms of attitude/character he's a great fit. The only concern I have, also shared by other speculators, is his size. But frankly, I'm a big Paul Posluzsny fan, and he ain't any bigger. Plus, Willis has the best 40 time out of all top linebacker prospects, and is said by many a top LB available in next months draft.
But like I said above, here's what could speak volumes for the guy -
"Has overcome a lot in his life to get where he is...Is heavily involved in community service...Is a great person and player who will be an asset to a team both on and off the field...Is simply one of the best linebackers available this year."If Willis is as responsible and mature as it sounds, he could be not only a great player, but could grow into a great leader, filling the void of charismatic defensive leader vacated when the Steelers unloaded Joey Porter on the Dolphins (call it whatever you want).
You know what though? I actually hate speculating on what the Steelers will do in the draft because honestly, I have plenty of faith in the organization. We have almost always made great drafting decisions and whoever we end up selecting I am sure will be an asset. Too bad that's the only thing there is to discuss right now, so I'll continue to do my best to speculate with a smile.
Read Patrick Willis Official Bio here
