Steelers Pick DE Cameron Heyward In First Round Of Draft
PITTSBURGH (KDKA/AP) -- The Pittsburgh Steelers have selected Cameron Heyward, a defensive end from Ohio State, in the first round of the NFL Draft.
The Steelers picked 31st this year.
Before the draft, there was speculation the Steelers might go for Maurkice Pouncey's twin brother, Mike, but he went to Miami as the 15th overall pick.
Heyward becomes the second defensive lineman selected by the Steelers in the first round over the past three seasons. Pittsburgh took Ziggy Hood from Missouri at No. 32 overall after winning the Super Bowl in 2009.
The reigning AFC champions have starters at all three positions on the defensive line who have made at least one Pro Bowl - but all are 32 or older. End Aaron Smith is entering his 13th season and was limited to only six games last season due to left torn triceps injury.
"I think he's capable of doing it all based on what we've seen on Ohio State tape," said Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin of Heyward. "No question he was an anchor point for them in the run game. He also created splash plays for them via rushing the passer."
Heyward is the son of the late Craig "Ironhead" Heyward, who played at Pitt and for several NFL teams including the New Orleans Saints.
The NFL Draft continues today.
Stay with KDKA for more details.
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