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.
#15 Sutton Smith/EDGE Northern Illinois/6’0 233 lbs
The Good:
- High motor
- Feasts in the backfield (Led NCAA in tackles for a loss in both 2018 and 2017)
- Wins a lot of battles on hustle and effort
- Uses hands well when rushing the passer
- Capable swim and rip move
- Quick first step off the line
- Shows good dip ability, adequate flexibility
- Uses quick footwork to work inside
- Great tackler, lots of range
The Bad:
- Undersized, may need a positional change
- Lacking lateral ability, struggles to get hips turned
- Gets bullied by offensive lineman
- Struggles to shed blocks
- Essentially neutralized once linemen get their hands on his shoulder pads
- Speed easily neutralized by getting run up the arc
- Gets fooled on option handoffs
- Lacks strength to penetrate against the run
Bio:
- 2018: 61 tackles, 26.