Steelers' Potential Draft Target Amarius Mims Shares The Truth About Only Starting 8 Games At Georgia: 'Cut The Film On'

The Pittsburgh Steelers are actively seeking an offensive lineman in the upcoming NFL Draft. A pressing need lies at center, prompting a crucial draft pick in that position. Additionally, bolstering the offensive line, particularly with a tackle, is imperative. The team is also eager to secure a wide receiver and should consider cornerback depth.

Recent reports suggest that the Steelers are increasingly inclined to target an offensive tackle in the first round. Among the candidates linked to the team in pre-draft speculations is Amarius Mims, hailing from Georgia's esteemed football program.

Standing tall at 6’7” and weighing 340 pounds, Mims possesses remarkable athleticism and immense potential. However, his college career saw him start only eight games, a fact that has drawn criticism. Mims addressed this aspect during an appearance on NFL Total Access.

"I was fortunate to play at a great O-Line room my freshman, sophomore year. Had some strong battles with guys like Warren McLendon, Broderick Jones, Jamaree [Saylor]. So I got some playing time freshman year, wasn't significant time, but sophomore year was kind of hard. I was in a three-tackle rotation where I was with two other good tackles. We all, we were battling every day just for all three of us to get 30-40 reps a game. It is what it is, starts are the starts.”

Regarding his limited starts in eight games, Mims remains unfazed and believes prospective drafting teams shouldn't be concerned either. He highlights that despite the low number of starts, he logged significant playing time and accumulated valuable experience, which he considers sufficient for the transition to the next level.

“But I feel like even with that eight career starts, I don't think it's a big deal in my opinion. I feel like if you want to cut the film on. The film is there.”

The Steelers have been associated with Mims, sparking curiosity about the kind of player he is. Should the Steelers select him, Mims has provided insights into what he could contribute to the team.

“I just try to work all the time on flexibility and all that good stuff because I feel like you have big guys who can’t move. I feel like being able to move is definitely another piece of my game that I try to bring. I try to get out on quick screens… Just quick trap plays with tackles getting out and setting the screens and stuff. That’s the element of my game that I can use and help make me a better tackle prospect.”

In the 2023 draft, the Steelers opted for offensive tackle Broderick Jones with their 14th overall pick. There's speculation that they may follow a similar path in the 2023 draft by selecting Jones' former college teammate, Mims.

Mims stands out as one of the top tackles in the draft, with his impressive size, athleticism, and versatility catching the attention of NFL teams. However, if the Steelers were to draft him, he would likely be viewed as more of a project player by some pundits, who doubt his immediate readiness to step in and start. This poses a challenge for the Steelers, who ideally seek a player capable of replacing Dan Moore Jr. in the near future. Nonetheless, Mims could potentially serve as his successor down the line.

Steelers Could Throw A Curveball In Round One

Some members of the media speculate that the Steelers might surprise everyone by selecting a cornerback or wide receiver in the first round. The Steelers' 20th pick will undoubtedly generate intrigue, as once fans learn which position they choose, it becomes easier to anticipate their subsequent moves.

Regardless of the Steelers' initial strategy, it's subject to change based on how other players are drafted. If Mims is still available at 20, as expected, the Steelers might consider selecting him, a move that wouldn't shock many given his previous links to the team. However, pundits also suggest keeping an eye on prospects like Brian Thomas Jr. at wide receiver and Cooper DeJean in the defensive backfield.