Devon Witherspoon. Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports

Steelers draft top CB in latest PFF mock draft

By Aaron Becker | Last updated 2/21/23

The Steelers have a number of needs heading into the offseason. A lockdown corner is near the top of the list and Pro Football Focus addresses the position for them in its latest mock draft.

PFF has Pittsburgh selecting Illinois CB Devon Witherspoon at No. 17 in the 2023 NFL Draft.

"The Steelers ran press coverage on more than 65% of their plays in 2022," PFF's Max Chadwick wrote. "There isn’t a better press cornerback in this all-eligible class than Witherspoon."

Witherspoon totaled 42 tackles, three interceptions and 14 passes defensed on his way to allowing just one yard on 107 press coverage snaps in 2022.

But the 22-year-old isn't just known for his impressive coverage ability. Witherspoon has a knack for tackling and setting the tone on defense as well, drawing comparisons to Packers CB Jaire Alexander.

There aren’t many corners who can set the tone for a defense with their tackling.

Devon Witherspoon is one of them. He’ll lock your top receiver down on one play and then lay a huge hit on the next. https://t.co/IckVUA3h7R
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) February 20, 2023

It does come as a surprise that Witherspoon falls to the Steelers at No. 17 as he currently ranks as PFF's No. 6 overall prospect on its big board. So it would certainly be a steal for Pittsburgh if he is still available when it picks.

The Steelers led the NFL in interceptions (20) last season and adding Witherspoon to their secondary could take their defense to another level in 2023.

More must-reads: