The Pittsburgh Steelers finished 2014 ranked 27th in passing defense, allowing 253.1 yards through the air per game. Yes, the team still managed to win the AFC North at 11-5, but a repeat performance shouldn't be expected if the Steelers don't upgrade in the secondary. Troy Polamalu may be released, Cortez Allen was benched and William Gay is 30. There's no beating around the bush, Pittsburgh needs some defensive backs.
That is why Florida State cornerback Ronald Darby has been mentioned as a possible selection in this month's NFL draft. But will the Steelers take him with the 22nd overall pick?
"That seems a little high and I would think the second round would be more likely as far as the Steelers taking Ronald Darby," ESPN Steelers reporter Scott Brown wrote. "Then again, who knows how the Steelers' draft board is shaping up? Darby has excellent speed, comes from a pedigreed program and has another attribute that could draw the Steelers to him. Darby played just three seasons at Florida State before declaring for the draft and only turned 21 in January. The Steelers have a recent history of taking third-year juniors high in the draft because of their upside. They have also had success with player who fall into that category, such as center Maurkice Pouncey, running back Le'Veon Bell and linebacker Lawrence Timmons."
It's unlikely that the Steelers will select Darby in the first-round of the NFL Draft. Instead, Pittsburgh has been linked to Oregon defensive end Arik Armstead. But if Darby is still available with Pittsburgh's 56th overall pick? He could be an immediate contributor in a thin secondary.
