The Pittsburgh Steelers stand on the cusp of a potentially transformative decision in the 2024 NFL Draft in the ever-evolving landscape of the National Football League, where strategy and foresight are just as crucial as strength and speed. With the draft fast approaching, rumors swirl around the Steel City that the storied franchise might be looking to its backyard to fill key positions, eyeing two former University of Pittsburgh stars who could infuse fresh talent into both their offensive and defensive lines.
Steel City Synergy: Goncalves and Devonshire on the Radar
At the heart of these draft whispers are Matt Goncalves, a towering offensive tackle, and M.J. Devonshire, a cornerback known for his playmaking abilities. Both athletes have donned the blue and gold for the Pitt Panthers, showcasing their skills on the very field the Steelers call home.
The prospect of transitioning from college heroes to NFL stalwarts in the same city is a storyline made for the movies, and it’s one that the Steelers seem keen to explore.
Matt Goncalves: A Lineman with a Point to Prove
Goncalves, whose collegiate career was marred by a toe injury, remains a figure of immense potential. Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 330 pounds, he possesses the physical attributes of a top-tier offensive tackle. Despite the setback in his senior year, Goncalves has shown resilience and a knack for both left and right tackle positions, making him a versatile pick.
The Steelers, who are in the market for a tackle to bolster their offensive line, could find Goncalves to be a perfect fit. With Dan Moore Jr.’s tenure nearing its end and a desire to shift Broderick Jones back to left tackle, Goncalves could be the piece that solidifies their lineup, assuming his health concerns are allayed.
M.J. Devonshire: The Defensive Dynamo
On the other side of the ball, M.J. Devonshire stands out as a beacon of consistency and prowess. Accumulating 66 tackles, seven interceptions (three of which he returned for touchdowns), and 18 passes defensed over the past two seasons, Devonshire’s collegiate record speaks volumes of his ability to change the course of a game.
Ranked as the 29th-best cornerback by Pro Football Focus, he could provide much-needed depth and versatility to the Steelers’ secondary, a unit that, despite acquiring Donte Jackson and drafting Joey Porter Jr., lacks depth.
Don't do it Pitt stars…https://t.co/aBldauhJix
— Matt (@MatthewLedin) March 29, 2024
The Draft Decision: Balancing Needs and Opportunities
The Steelers’ interest in Goncalves and Devonshire is more than just a nod to local talent; it’s a strategic consideration of filling crucial positions with players who potentially offer great value for their draft position. Goncalves, projected to go in the fourth round, and Devonshire, a possible sixth-round pick, represent opportunities to address needs without the high cost associated with earlier picks.
This approach also reflects a learning curve for the Steelers, who have seen mixed results from drafting Pitt alumni in early rounds, most notably with quarterback Kenny Pickett. By targeting Goncalves and Devonshire in later rounds, Pittsburgh could strike a balance between bolstering its roster and managing the draft capital efficiently.
Pittsburgh Steelers: A Homecoming with High Stakes
As the draft looms, the Steelers’ strategy will be under intense scrutiny. The potential selection of Matt Goncalves and M.J. Devonshire is emblematic of the team’s broader drafting philosophy: identifying talent that can immediately contribute, while also providing long-term value. For Goncalves and Devonshire, the opportunity to transition from Pitt Panthers to Pittsburgh Steelers would not only be a dream come true but also a testament to their journey and resilience.
In the end, the Steelers’ draft decisions will be a statement of intent for the season ahead. With the right picks, Pittsburgh can hope to address its pressing needs and set the stage for a future as bright as its storied past. As for Goncalves and Devonshire, they stand on the precipice of a rare homecoming, one that could see them shine on the biggest stage, in the very city that has already embraced them as its own.
Source: Yardbarker
