Pittsburgh Steelers Select...With the 32nd Pick of the 2012 NFL Draft

Pittsburgh Steelers fans can already envision their team making a run to the Super Bowl, again, as the Steelers have overcome injury and average play to beat some of the NFL's best teams.  The most recent win occurred at Heinz Field on Sunday against the New England Patriots.

Assuming the Steelers continue their success into the postseason, even if they don't win the Super Bowl, it's highly unlikely they'll have a high enough pick to steal one of college football's preeminent playmakers.

However, the Steelers will have a chance to upgrade their aging and depleted unit of linebackers.  If Pittsburgh makes the middle of their defense a priority, which inside linebacker is it likely to pick?

1. Dont'a Hightower, Alabama

Hightower brings SEC speed to the middle of the Steelers defense.  Not only is he excellent at stopping the run, he's able to play coverage in the passing game while also blitzing the quarterback from the inside. At 6'4", 260 pounds, Hightower could be a beast for the Steelers.

2. Manti Te'o, Notre Dame

Te'o is an interesting pick because his roots are similar to those of Troy Polamalu's.  If the Steelers combine the two phenoms from rival universities, would Pittsburgh need the other nine defenders?  Te'o is a middle linebacker who plays like he's on the outside, covering both sides of the field while barking commands at his teammates in between snaps.  At 6-foot-2, 255 pounds, his head coach learned it's not good to upset the Hawaiian native. Just ask Navy.

3. Vontaze Burfict, Arizona State

They say he has anger issues.  Strong, consistent and a hard-hitter, Burfict has anchored the middle of the Arizona State defense for Dennis Erickson.  Ultimately, it's Burfict's ability to react to the ball that makes him an elite prospect.  Combine that quickness with his anger, and opposing defenses would be insane to run toward the 6'3", 250 pound inside linebacker. 

If the Steelers must choose an inside linebacker from this group of three, they should be in good shape, as all three present intriguing additions to Pittsburgh's iron curtain.