The Pittsburgh Steelers are quietly hoping that safety Troy Polamalu will opt for retirement instead of getting into a messy contract dispute with the team. Polamalu, 33, is far removed from the Defensive Player of the Year he was in 2010. The veteran defensive back has struggled with injuries over the last few seasons, and his on-field play has reflected that. The Steelers, who ranked 27th in opposing passing yards last season and allowed the second most completions of 40-plus yards, are looking to get younger at the safety position in the upcoming NFL draft. That's why Alabama star Landon Collins is firmly on Pittsburgh's radar.
"In my previous mock, I had Collins landing here as a player who can come in and contribute right away," ESPN NFL Draft Insider Mel Kiper Jr. wrote in his Mock Draft 3.0. "Even if the Steelers decide Troy Polamalu is fine to come back for another year, they won't expect him to play every down, and Collins would not only help right away but serve as a logical replacement. He's a highly versatile safety who can make plays at the line of scrimmage and won't look bad in coverage. He brings a ton of experience. I also think getting the top safety in the draft at No. 22 would be a solid value."
Collins appeared in all 27 games during his first two seasons at Alabama. Durability is certainly an attribute the Steelers are looking for after Polamalu shuffled in and out of the line up in recent years. Collins is a stout run defender who isn't afraid to lower his shoulder and get into the fray of a pile. His ball skills aren't as impressive as Polamalu in his prime, but he covers well overall and performs well when asked to defend deep routes.
