WR Sanders the latest Steeler with third round pick

The Steelers went wide out with their third pick, as they tried to fill a position of need with the departure of Santonio Holmes. The team selected SMU pass catcher Emmanuel Sanders

Here’s a quick tidbit on him from National Football Post:

An explosive slot guy who gets up to speed quickly and can separate down the field. Sanders lacks ideal size but is very fluid and knows how to pluck the football away from his frame.

And here’s the scouting report from NFL Draft Countdown:

Strengths:
Good height — Outstanding speed and quickness — Explosive with a burst — Runs crisp routes — Excellent leaping ability — Nice ball skills and body control — Very Elusive — Creative runner with terrific vision and instincts — Vertical threat — Can separate — Will make the circus catch — Competitive — Can contribute as a return man — Productive.

Weaknesses:
Doesn’t have the bulk you look for — Just average hands — Not very strong or powerful — Will struggle to beat the jam — Won’t break many tackles — Is not much of a blocker — Takes some unnecessary risks in the return game — Will have to acclimate to a pro style system.

Notes:
Was a four-year starter for the Mustangs — Named 1st Team All-C-USA in 2009 and 2nd Team in 2008 — Averaged 11.4 yards with 1 touchdown on 42 punt returns and 22.2 yards on 13 kick returns in college — Was suspended for the final two games of the 2008 season for being repeatedly late to study hall and team meetings — Also saw some spot action at cornerback while at S.M.U. — Was a two-time team captain and leader — Production was inflated by June Jones’ spread offense — Saw his draft stock soar on the heels of a big senior campaign and an impressive performance at the East / West Shrine game — Likely profiles as an ideal #3 / slot receiver at the next level.