The 2012 NFL Draft is right around the corner, and the mock drafts keep coming fast and furious. The Pittsburgh Steelers have been linked to offensive linemen and several defensive players in mocks this offseason, as Pittsburgh needs depth and young athleticism in both areas.
In the fifth edition of their 2012 NFL Mock Draft, the folks at Opposing Views have the Steelers selecting Alabama linebacker Dont'a Hightower with that No. 24 pick:
Out of all of the Alabama players that will ultimately go in the first round, Hightower could go on to have the most impactful, impressive career. This guy has everything you need for success in the pro ranks, mentally and physically, and he'd be a natural fit in the Steelers' 3-4. There is really no way he slips beyond this point.
Hightower was also the pick of choice for the Steelers in the most recent SBNation.com Mock Draft, and seems like a logical fit for Pittsburgh. Hightower called the plays for Nick Saban's Crimson Tide defense, and under the tutelage of Steelers coach Dick LeBeau could quickly become a force in the league.
For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain. For more on the NFL Draft, there's Mocking The Draft. Here's SB Nation's latest mock draft.