Travis Long and the NFL: Pittsburgh Steelers
By Nick Nordi
Dec 16, 2012; Arlington, TX, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers helmet on the field before the game against the Dallas Cowboys at Cowboys Stadium. The Cowboys won 27-24 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Pittsburgh Steelers
With James Harrison testing free agency the Steelers are running low on outside linebackers. The current roster shows two outside backers and Pittsburgh could be looking for a new LB to take over for Harrison and become an addition to work with LaMarr Woodley and Jason Worilds in this upcoming draft. Travis Long has proven he can play and looked like a second day pick for a team in need of an OLB. With the Injury sustained at the end of the season it has pushed Long deeper into the draft. This could be a good thing for the Steelers who would be able to sit back and wait a few rounds before jumping on Long.
The Perfect Storm:
Long brings to the table heart and the ability to show his talents on the field. Even though he is not the fastest or most athletic line backer in the draft he is able to make up for it with effort and technique. Pittsburgh would be getting a player who can immediately make a difference on the field and is able to work with all sorts of players on the team without taking too big of a risk.
Likelihood of Getting Drafted by Steelers:
A-, The Steelers are in need of a linebacker and Travis Long would not be that bad of an idea for them to pick up a solid LB later in the draft.