NFL Mock Draft 2013: Steelers could replenish linebacking unit

After parting ways with James Harrison, will Pittsburgh look to try and fill his void in the draft?

By Griffin Gotta Mar 14, 2013, 10:50pm EDT

The Pittsburgh Steelers are in the midst of an offseason of changes. Arguably the biggest defensive overhaul came with the release of linebacker James Harrison, and, as is the normal state in the NFL, the Steelers now must look towards trying to replace him.

With the 17th overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft, Pittsburgh may very well use that spot as a starting point for their on-the-fly rebuild of their defense.

More: Steelers coverage at Behind the Steel Curtain

NFLDraftScout.com (via CBSSports.com) showcases four draft analysts and their mock draft predictions. In their latest projections, three of the four analysts see the Steelers taking a hybrid defensive end/linebacker. Two of those picks are former Texas A&M Aggies defensive end Damontre Moore.

SB Nation's Dan Kadar, in his pre-free agency mock draft from Monday, also projects Moore going to Pittsburgh. Here's why:

"He's a chase defender who often gets by most on his hustle. He could fit well in the Steelers' 3-4 defense as a player on the outside. That would allow him to shoot inside gaps, which is his specialty. Don't forget, in 2011 Moore was used as a linebacker before playing end in 2012."

Moore's versatility seemingly could make him a welcome addition to Pittsburgh's multifaceted defense alongside linebacker Larry Foote.