A look at some other Steelers drafts from 10, 20 and 30 years ago
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- By then, other teams had caught up to the Steelers' drafting style, the draft was a few months later (giving teams extra time to study), and the Steelers struggled with keeping older players who helped them win four Super Bowls or replacing them with youngsters. The result was a disastrous draft at the top with a few gems later. Defensive end Keith Gary, their top pick, decided to play in Canada his first two seasons. They did not draft another player worth mentioning until rounds 6 and 7 when they got two good starting linebackers in Bryan Hinkle and David Little. But here's one more twist to that draft. In the 10th round, the Steelers drafted Boston College safety Mike Mayock, who did not make it with them but played two seasons for the New York Giants. Today, Mayock is the NFL Network's expert draft analyst.
1991-- Another epic draft for another reason. Linebacker Huey Richardson, chosen in the first round, ranks among their biggest busts. Bill Cowher cut him the following training camp. Ernie Mills was a decent No. 3 receiver for some good teams. Tight end Adrian Cooper didn't last long. That was about it.
2001 -- First pick Casey Hampton has been their starting nose tackle for 10 years and a Pro Bowler. Linebacker Kendrell Bell was defensive rookie of the year but flamed out quickly. Chris Hope is a good safety still playing with the Tennessee Titans. Larry Foote became a starter at inside linebacker for six years and returned to the Steelers last season as a backup. Defensive end Rodney Bailey played a few years as a backup. All in all, a very good draft.
First Published April 25, 2011 12:00 am
