Steelers Wish-List Wednesday: LB Edgerrin Cooper

The Steelers once again are looking to bolster their off-ball linebacker group. The last couple of seasons they have seen injuries decimate the group. Especially last year, when they called two retired players to fill in for the injured stars. Now don’t get me wrong, I love the trio of Holcomb, Roberts, and Alexander. But the injury history is too much of a concern to not add to the group. So, in this week’s Wish List Wednesday, we will check out the number one linebacker prospect in this year’s draft. 

Now taking caution because of the Steelers' recent draft history with Texas A&M, but I think Edgerrin Cooper is a must-have. Last season, he racked up 83 tackles, eight sacks, and two forced fumbles. Those are numbers that have been missing from the Steelers linebackers for a few years now. Bringing Cooper in would bring more splash than we’ve seen since Devin Bush’s rookie season. The Texas A&M prospect is a 6’3” and 230 pounds freak athlete, and he’s already caught Tomlin’s eye. 

Per Ryan Fowler via Aggies Wire, the Steelers “‘love’ Cooper’s game and met with him multiple times in Frisco”. There is a possibility that Cooper will fall to the Steeler's second-round pick, but don’t discount a trade-up to grab him earlier. Omar Khan isn’t afraid to get his hands dirty, and if the Steelers are showing that much interest in him, then all options will be opened. 

If the Steelers take Cooper in this year’s draft, and everything works out, Pittsburgh will have their next great linebacker. He has the potential to run sideline to sideline, downhill, and make explosive plays. If it doesn't turn out as we hope, then he will (or at least should be) better than Mark Robinson. I do think he will take over the starting role with Holcomb around midseason. And with that, the Steelers will get back to dominance and smash-mouth football. Or at least have better depth in case of injuries.

What do you think, Steelers Nation? Would you take Edgerrin Cooper if you were Omar Khan? Would you love or despise the pick? Who do you want the Steelers to take in April?