2013 NFL mock draft has Steelers taking DT Jesse Williams

Jesse Williams, a defensive tackle for the Alabama Crimson Tide, is projected to be the Pittsburgh Steelers first-round NFL Draft selection by CBS Sports' Rob Rang. The Steelers (8-8) will have the 17th overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft.

Williams is listed at 6'3, 320 pounds and earned All-SEC second team honors after collecting 36 tackles and a sack.

Here's what CBS Sports had to say about the Steelers' selection:

The Steelers have done a nice of job of refurbishing their defensive line with Ziggy Hood and optimism remains high on rookie nose guard Alameda Ta'amu, despite his recent arrest. Rather than gamble on Ta'amu's development, the Steelers might instead choose to develop Williams, an Australian-born defender who has wowed onlookers with his power and upside.

The pick of Williams would be somewhat of a surprise, as the Steelers need to upgrade their linebacking corps and possibly the secondary. However, if a team is going to improve those positions without picking that type of player, adding to the defensive line would be a good way to do it.

Still, the common theme by early mock draft, including SB Nation's, has the Steelers going with a linebacker, a position that is getting older and losing impact talent.