Hurtin' for: blocking
I know that Ben Roethlisberger likes to hold onto the ball and scramble rather than throw it away, but he still gets hit way too much. The Steelers tied for the seventh-most sacks allowed in 2007 despite attempting the second-fewest passes in the league. In 2006, they tied for fourth-most sacks allowed despite sitting in the middle of the NFL in pass attempts. Football Outsiders ranked Pittsburgh 25th in 2006 and 31st in 2007 in adjusted sack rate, which accounts for a team's passing frequency and opponents. Now, the Steelers have watched their consensus best lineman bolt to the Jets via free agency. Protection is imperative in front of the passer at whom they just threw $100 million.

Should be lookin' for: a corner and a receiver
Deshea Townsend has been replaceable for several years, and Ike Taylor has endured a tumultuous ride in and out of the lineup. The Steelers were said to be very interested in Darrelle Revis last year, but the Jets jumped up and grabbed him before Pittsburgh could. If no offensive lineman they fancy remains on the board at 23, a cornerback could present good value.

As for receiver, Roethlisberger has already upset Hines Ward by publicly asking for a bigger target. Maybe the team will be able to sate its signal-caller by grabbing Indiana's James Hardy in Round 2 or a player such as Kansas State's Jordy Nelson or Oklahoma State's Adarius Bowman on the second day.

Will likely settle for: a defensive end
Pittsburgh is fine with its starters at end, but the torn biceps that ended Aaron Smith's season revealed a weakness in depth. The team might have trouble finding a top talent at this spot in Round 1, unless it likes Kentwan Balmer, but there should be plenty of candidates in Rounds 2, 3 and 4. Maryland's Dre Moore, who has already visited the Steelers, could be a possibility.

Matt Schauf is a contributing writer for Draft Stock and an associate editor and senior fantasy football writer for SportsBuff.com