NFL Draft 2010: Why The Pittsburgh Steelers Need Dexter McCluster

In trading Santonio Holmes, the receiving corps for the Steelers has gone from secure to a state of disarray.

Assuming Hines Ward remains in his current role, the immediate issue becomes, who will fill the role of number one receiver?

Mike Wallace would be the front-runner, with Limas Sweed, Antwaan Randle El, and Brandon London as an infinitely distant field.

The other alternatives would be to seek out a player in what remains of the free agent wide receiver market or draft Dez Bryant in the first round.

Given that both alternatives are unlikely, the natural progression would be to promote Mike Wallace, leaving an opening at slot receiver.

That's where Dexter McCluster comes in.

At a generous 5'9", 172lbs, Dexter McCluster plays much bigger than he measures.

Just ask Chad Jones,

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ew5OIwf_Its&feature=related (For some reason, I can't embed the video)

McCluster would fill several roles for the Steelers.

The Steelers have voiced a need for a running back in the 2010 draft. Someone to serve as a change of pace or a third down-back.

The Steelers have a need for a kick returner. Stefan Logan's success in the CFL hasn't translated to NFL success and Antwaan Randle El has lost a step since his previous stint with the Steelers special teams.

As mentioned above, the Steelers will likely need a receiver to line up in the slot and compete for time with Limas Sweed and Randle El.

Dexter McCluster could, potentially, fill all three roles.

People question McCluster's size, his strength, his durability.

Percy Harvin was a first round selection, do you think he has the size and strength to hit Chad Jones?