NFL insider Albert Breer has spotlighted three prospects gaining momentum ahead of the draft, who may still be available at the Pittsburgh Steelers' 21st overall pick. The group includes Indiana receiver Omar Cooper Jr., Miami edge rusher Akheem Mesidor, and Arizona State offensive tackle Max Iheanachor. Breer noted strong interest from teams in each player despite their projected mid-round status.
Pittsburgh Steelers hold the 21st pick in a draft class short on elite talent but deep at key positions like receiver, edge, and offensive tackle, areas linked to the team recently. Breer, citing conversations with teams, praised Omar Cooper Jr. for his post-catch ability. “Teams I’ve talked to really, really like Indiana receiver Omar Cooper Jr,” Breer wrote. “Best known for the otherworldly catch he made to beat Penn State, he might be better than any receiver in the draft after the catch, and I think some teams have him right there with the best wideouts in the entire class.” Cooper's athleticism and route-running make him a dynamic fit, with some mocks projecting him to Pittsburgh. At edge rusher, Akheem Mesidor is climbing boards despite turning 25 and past injuries. “More teams than I thought actually prefer Akheem Mesidor to fellow Miami edge Rueben Bain Jr,” Breer observed. “The problem is Mesidor just turned 25 and has an injury history. But he’s a really, really good player.” Mesidor's quickness, bend, and hand usage stand out, though the Steelers' depth at the position tempers the need. Offensive tackle Max Iheanachor, a late starter to football after playing basketball, has impressed evaluators. “Arizona State OT Max Iheanachor has helped himself through the process,” Breer said. “There’s a ton of room for Iheanachor to grow, and he could become someone’s long-term left tackle, if they have the infrastructure to develop him the right way. Teams are most certainly intrigued.” Currently a right tackle, his upside intrigues teams willing to invest in his development.
