Steelers Select Missouri Playmaker In Latest CBS Sports Mock Draft

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With the acquisition of All-Pro receiver DK Metcalf, speculation has arisen in some circles about the Pittsburgh Steelers potentially moving on from George Pickens. This notion was reflected in Josh Edwards' latest mock draft for CBS Sports.

With the 21st overall pick, Edwards has the Steelers selecting playmaking receiver Luther Burden III from Missouri. In his rationale, he dismisses the idea of the team drafting a quarterback, given the likelihood of them signing veteran Aaron Rodgers. He suggests that the team might trade Pickens at some point during the season due to potential conflicts with Rodgers, making the selection of a receiver like Burden III seem more plausible.

"I would not be surprised if George Pickens were moved at some point before the season. Pittsburgh acquired DK Metcalf and the skill sets overlap. Plus, Aaron Rodgers and Pickens would be an unstable mixture."

Although Burden III has primarily been perceived as a slot receiver, he has demonstrated his ability to perform on the outside, making him an ideal candidate for a 'Z' receiver. At this point in the pre-draft process, the Steelers have only met with him once, during a formal meeting at this year's NFL Combine. They did not meet with him at his Pro Day, nor have they invited him for a pre-draft visit.

In his three years with the Tigers, Burden III accumulated 2,263 yards on 192 receptions and scored 24 total touchdowns across 38 career games.