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2012 NFL Mock Draft: SB Nation Predicts The Steelers Will Draft Linebacker Luke Kuechly

With mere days before the NFL Draft in New York City, Pittsburgh fans have to be wondering who will be available when the No. 24 overall pick will come up for the Steelers. While Dont'a Hightower is a popular choice to go at No. 24 to the Steelers, SB Nation predicts that though he will be available at 24, the Steelers will pass on him and select Boston College linebacker Luke Kuechly.

I have a hard time placing Kuechly, first-round linebacker bias. He could be picked in the first 15 spots; he could fall to the end of the round. Pittsburgh would be fortunate to find him here. Needing youth in their linebacker group, Kuechly would be a franchise cornerstone for years to come.

Kuechly recorded at least 10 tackles a game in all but one of Boston College's games this past year. He also recorded three interceptions last season, including a 45 yard return for a touchdown in the Eagles' final game against Miami on Nov. 25.

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, visit Behind the Steel Curtain. For all the latest NFL Draft news, visit Mocking the Draft.

Photographs by dizfunk used in background montage under Creative Commons. Thank you.