The top prospects in the draft have only a few opportunities to impress NFL scouts after their season ends. They can play in an all-star game, participate in the NFL Combine, visit the teams individually or show out at their pro day. Alabama linebacker Dont'a Hightower took full advantage of the last option, putting on a strong showing at his pro day last week in Tuscaloosa. That makes his selection to the Steelers at No. 24 overall in the latest 2012 NFL Mock Draft an even better selection for the team.
Hightower stole the show at Alabama's pro day. Showing off his speed, Hightower looked like a plug-and-play linebacker in almost any system. His record as a pass rusher in college only improves his resume. He would be a natural replacement for James Farrior, as we have said before, and give the Pittsburgh defense some much needed youth.
Hightower would be a nice fit next to Lawrence Timmmons in the middle of the field for the Steelers and would make all four linebackers on the field positions of strength for the defense.
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.