The Steelers double-dipped at cornerback by signing Steven Nelson in free agency and drafting Justin Layne from Michigan State with their second pick in the third round, the 83rd overall pick in the draft.
Layne was among the better cornerback prospects projected to be drafted on Day 2, though some draft analysts, including Mel Kiper, gave him a first-round grade. However, when Deandre Baker was the only cornerback drafted in the first round and six others were taken in the second round, Layne's value was in question until the Steelers made him the 10th cornerback selected.
Nelson and Joe Haden are the going to start, so Layne doesn't have the pressure of having to produce immediately. But his college tape shows promise and the Steelers are excited about his potential. The Steelers aren't alone. ESPN's Todd McShay rated Layne as his favorite of the Steelers' nine picks, Devin Bush included, and NFL.com's Lance Zierlein selected Layne as one of his three favorite picks of the third round.
To continue reading, log into your account:
