With a little more than 24 hours before the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft in New York, the misinformation, rumors, and smokescreens are spreading rampantly through the media. Despite conflicting information, the top of the draft seems to be solidifying but mock draft projections are still split on which way the Steelers will go with the No. 24 pick. There have been plenty of mocks predicting Pittsburgh chooses an offensive lineman, while others have them targeting a prospect to add to the defensive front seven.
Mel Kiper, in the fifth version of his mock draft released on Wednesday, projects the Steelers selecting a massive defensive tackle in Dontari Poe. Via Mel Kiper of ESPN:
This is a great value and a big need for the Steelers. Poe fits the physical profile of the heir to Casey Hampton, a true nose tackle. But I think Poe is athletic enough to be a 3-technique in Dick LeBeau's system. The Steelers really need to build up the depth on the defensive line, and Poe is a great fit.
Poe was a workout wonder at the Combine in February, running a 4.87 in the 40-yard dash at 346 pounds. He would likely make an instant impact on the interior for Dick LeBeau's defense.
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