From now until the 2019 NFL Draft takes place, we hope to showcase as many prospects as possible and examine both their strengths and weaknesses. Most of these profiles will feature individuals that the Pittsburgh Steelers are likely to have an interest in, while a few others will be top-ranked players. If there is a player you would like us to analyze, let us know in the comments below.
#57 Tre Lamar/ILB Clemson – 6’4 250
The Good
– NFL size and looks the part
– Physical player capable of pushing his weight around, can thump in the run game
– Strong, reliable tackler
– Takes good angles in the run game, run fits are largely sound, exhibits patience and plays backs inside/out, doesn’t overpursue
– Works hard to finish plays, shows high effort to the ball
– Decent production and starting experience against good competition
– Young player with room to grow
– Has NFL bloodlines
The Bad
– Extremely limited athlete who seems to expend a ton of energy moving sideline to sideline and backwards
– Awkward mover, very deliberate in his steps, stiff player who struggles to cover ground
– Lack of athleticism makes him late to the spot, has trouble getting proper depth, closing on the ball in coverage, and playing the ball on the edge
– Far from a dynamic player who lacked splash plays and will struggle even more at the NFL level
– Didn’t play a ton of snaps at Clemson, rotated out for passing situations, and used on “run downs”
– Takes false steps trying to get downhill in the run game, can cause him to be a step late through the gap
– Difficulty taking on base blocks against guards and centers, too easily washed out, especially for a guy of his size
– On the ground too often
– Offers little as a pass rusher, best success will come along the interior against running backs when he has size advantage, shows no bend the few snaps he saw on the edge, very tight hips and ankles
– Will have hard time finding an every down role in the NFL and lacks the speed/range to be a strong special teamer, though hit power and physicality are pluses
Bio
– Two year starter for the Tigers (22 total), declared early as a true junior
– Career: 146 tackles (13.