From now until the 2020 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.
#21 Jared Mayden/S Alabama – 6’0 205
The Good
– Stout frame who looks the part
– Desire to be physical, attacks the ball downhill, strong filling the alley in the run game
– Wants to and capable of delivering a big blow against runners, willing to sacrifice his body to make plays
– Has a general “hair on fire type attitude”
– Works best closer to the line of scrimmage but versatile, asked to play in the box, slot, outside vs RBs/TEs and some work as the post safety
– Played in NFL-type scheme, experience in man, zone, matchup coverages
The Bad
– Aiming point is far too high as a tackler and causes him to miss/fall off far more than he should
– Focuses too much on going for the big hit than the wrap-up, fundamental tackle
– Angles are too shallow in coverage when playing FS and trying to defend vertical concepts
– Went quiet too often, rarely felt like an impact player or game changer, even against lower competition
– INTs weren’t high difficulty plays, splash moments felt hollow
– Appears to be an average athlete and a bit tight-hipped in trying to change directions
– Only one year of starting experience and limited production
Bio
– 10 career starts
– Career: 81 tackles, 4 INTs 3 TFL 1 sack
– 2019: 59 tackles, 4 INTs
– Top recruit out of high school, chose Alabama over Oklahoma, Georgia, and Michigan (had 39 offers)
Tape Breakdown
Mayden was a highly touted recruit coming out of high school with the ability to go pretty much anywhere he wanted.