Troy Fautanu, a predicted first-round pick, is one of two additional O-line draft hopefuls that the Steelers will visit.
The Pittsburgh Steelers hosted formal pre-draft visits on Monday for Troy Fautanu of Washington and Mason McCormick of South Dakota State, further indicating their plan to give the offensive line priority during next week’s selection.
Fautanu started for two seasons as a left tackle in college, but he also has experience at guard, where some experts think he would be more successful in the NFL. The 6-foot-4, 317-pound Fautanu is regarded as a strong blocker who plays with determination, and his anticipated draft position is mid-to-late in the first round.
With the No. 20 pick, the Steelers have selected the majority of the tackles who are expected to go in that area. Dan Moore, the starting left tackle, is nearing the end of his contract, so the organization is exploring his possibilities as a potential long-term backup to Broderick Jones, the first-round pick last year.
McCormick (6-4, 309) led FBS champion South Dakota State to 57 straight game starts. McCormick was an FCS All-American twice and captained teams that won the national title twice in three years. According to the mock draft compilation website nflmockdraftdatabase.com, McCormick is projected to be selected in the fifth round by consensus.
Prospects—aside from locals—are allowed 30 pre-draft visits from teams. This week is when the Steelers are supposed to conclude their trips.
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