BR Community Mock Draft: Pittsburgh Steelers Select...

The Buffalo Rumblings Community Mock Draft rolls along, with the No. 24 overall pick coming at you right now...

With the No. 24 overall pick in the BR Community Mock Draft, 'JDSym' and the Pittsburgh Steelers select Alabama linebacker Dont'a Hightower.

"For the first time in a few years, the Steelers actually find themselves in need of several players who can come in and make an impact right away," says JDSym. "Traditionally, it has been the team's philosophy, particularly under Mike Tomlin, to draft players that can come in and develop for a year or two before they are asked to take on significant responsibility and starting duties. That has to be kept in mind when making this pick."

More from the GM after the jump. The Denver Broncos and GM 'TrufflePig' are now on the clock; remember to send your picks to buffalorumblings@gmail.com.

"With that, I have identified the team's top needs as the offensive line (both guard and tackle are needed, and as they have shown in recent years, versatility along their line is necessary because of injuries), defensive line, and inside linebacker," continues the GM. "There are secondary needs as well, both at safety and cornerback, and an argument can be made for a dynamic tight end with smaller, quicker receivers and an aging Heath Miller.

"As the draft shaped up, the pick came down to Cordy Glenn - because of his versatility, size, and tremendous upside - and Hightower," concludes JDSym. "I briefly thought about Mike Adams, but I don't believe he has the right type of work ethic and attitude to thrive in the Steelers' system. The defensive line can be pushed into a later round, as it is a very deep class. I also considered Coby Fleener in this position, but because of the needs on their aging defense, this was a pretty easy pick. Hightower is a proven leader and a winner, both things the Steelers like in players. He has a rare combination of size, speed, and power that make him unique among linebackers, particularly in this draft class. With James Farrior gone and Larry Foote aging, this not only fills a need, but allows other linebackers to do what they do best in rushing the passer and not worrying as much about stuffing the run. Not to mention, it doesn't hurt that this pick keeps him out of the Ravens' hands; that being said, it had no bearing on the pick."