Steelers Wish-List Wednesday: OT JC Latham

Offensive line is a position group the Steelers have been rebuilding since the Pouncey/DeCastro era. With the selection of Broderick Jones in last year's draft, Pittsburgh is a couple of pieces away from having a solid group up front. This year presents a deep tackle class, and the most “NFL-ready” tackle might be available at pick 20.

Alabama’s JC Latham could be the best tackle coming in the draft this year, with respect to Notre Dame's Joe Alt. He won’t be the first tackle taken, or even the tackle with the highest upside. But he is the most NFL-ready tackle and given that Pittsburgh needs one…you get the picture. And here’s why the Steelers should look at the Alabama product:

At 6’6” and 342 pounds, he is a mauler in the running game and excels at pass protection. He has active feet and hands in pass protection to dominate NFL pass rushers. He gets into his set quickly and has above-average balance, so he is never overwhelmed. He is also good at sealing the edge on film which creates run lanes for the offense. 

One thing Latham will have to work on is his consistency with inside defenders. What I mean is that he can get beat on the inside more than the outside. If Latham continues to work on his weaknesses, he will dominate the next level. He has the potential to be an NFL Pro Bowler, and the Steelers should consider him at pick 20.

JC Latham was the best lineman on the Crimson Tide’s line that went to the College Football Playoff last season. He is accustomed to winning and will bring that winning culture to the Steelers. Pittsburgh needs to focus on their offensive line, and Latham will be a huge upgrade over Dan Moore Jr. 

What do you think, Steeler Nation? Would you take JC Latham at pick 20?