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The Pittsburgh Steelers will take defensive tackle John Jenkins out of Georgia in the 2013 NFL Draft, ESPN's Mel Kiper predicted on Thursday. The Steelers are just over the halfway mark on the season, and have no idea where their selection may fall, but Kiper believes Pittsburgh will be looking to get better on the defensive front.
Jenkins is a large human being, even as far as NFL tackles go, measuring 6'6 and 358 pounds. The senior has recorded 28 total tackles with one tackle for loss and seven quarterback hurries this year. He has also batted one pass down and blocked a kick. Jenkins is the type of player that can occupy space and multiple blockers in middle of the Steelers' 3-4 scheme, allowing linebackers to roam free and make plays. He is rated as the No. 2 defensive tackle expected to be available in next April's draft by nfldraftscout.com.
CBS Sports ranks Jenkins as the No. 14 prospect overall, so he may not be available if the Steelers hold on to their current position as a playoff team. Things will me be much clearer after the games are actually played.