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Thread: Best 'Sleeper' candidates that fit the Steelers

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    Best 'Sleeper' candidates that fit the Steelers

    https://www.pff.com/news/draft-bigge...fl-draft-class

    Just a thread for those players outside the main media focus that WE find during our draft nerd searching and stuff. Looking for players that are productive at their positions, and could translate to the Steelers well.

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    Re: Best 'Sleeper' candidates that fit the Steelers

    Darius Stills 6'1"-285lbs 3tech or 5tech DL WVA:

    http://www.tankathon.com/nfl/players/darius-stills

    An article predicting a 2nd/3rd round grade. I'm thinking 4th but I'm usually wrong.
    https://www.si.com/college/westvirgi...with-nfl-teams

    An article with a list of collegiate athletic accomplishments in 2020:
    https://www.si.com/college/westvirgi...m-all-american

    Jordan Reid talking his 3 best fits for Stills. He doesn't mention Steelers but listen to the reasons for his fits and I think that fits Steelers also.
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qsN3T1qKcok

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    Re: Best 'Sleeper' candidates that fit the Steelers

    Mustafa Johnson 6'2"-290lbs 3tech or 5tech DL Colorado:

    http://www.tankathon.com/nfl/players/mustafa-johnson

    Talent breakdown video:
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sdY6j9xrnxU

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    Re: Best 'Sleeper' candidates that fit the Steelers

    A 3rd 3tech DL in a row to kick off this prospect thread. This time O'Bryan Goodson 6'1" 295lbs 3tech DL Memphis:

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hhh6S0c1nCM

    Not much on video for Goodson yet but here are some 1on1 drills from the 2016 AL vs MS highschool allstar game practice. Fairly even contests but you see O'Bryan Goodson totally dominate his reps:

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XMBDxzb81II

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    Re: Best 'Sleeper' candidates that fit the Steelers

    Darius Stills

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    Re: Best 'Sleeper' candidates that fit the Steelers

    Quote Originally Posted by teegre View Post
    Darius Stills
    Do you think Stills would fit as a nose for the Steelers? Would he need to add a bit more size, as 285 is still a bit light for somebody playing the A gaps. There arent a lot of 6'1" 5-technique guys in the NFL, so I really dont see him playing that in the Steelers defense.

    Rashad Weaver from Pitt is a guy with a large frame that I wonder if he could add some size and play DE in a 3-4. https://www.si.com/nfl/giants/draft/...ver-pittsburgh at least the Steelers will have a good idea of his skills and abilities by being in the building.

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    Re: Best 'Sleeper' candidates that fit the Steelers

    Tony Poljan 6'7" 265lbs TE UV:
    Been looking at this prospect since early on and I still like what I see. His height will most likely be a leverage issue in-line run blocking but that doesn't mean he can't do it. What does impress is how he moves after the catch. Most TEs I have looked at with Poljan's measureables look very awkward running after the catch and most usually simply fall down at first contact or after only a few steps. Poljan turns into a runner with the ball and does a nice job working through first contact and seems to fall forward most of the time. One thing I have noticed is college TEs seem to get free releases off the line and into their routes. I would love to find footage of a team jamming him and see how he plays through that.

    Highlights reel. Shows primarily Poljan lined up in-line or slot. Smooth routes and catches with his hands.
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IwNKTlo2SoQ

    An interesting article with some MAC footage of Poljan before he transferred:
    https://www.nfldraftdiamonds.com/2020/05/tony-poljan/

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    Re: Best 'Sleeper' candidates that fit the Steelers

    Quintin Morris 6'4" 240lbs TE Bowling Green: Another MAC TE that I kept seeing his name when looking at other tE prospects. Made me curious so I dug a little more. Morris is a later round prospect that would most likely start out as a complimentary TE with Ebron being the focus. A good in-line blocker that can also be flexed out as a receiver. Very good size and athleticism.

    This article is a very good read on Quintin Morris and his strengths:
    https://www.profootballnetwork.com/q...een-tight-end/

    Not finding much BG film footage highlighting Morris, but this is from the Senior Bowl with PFN analysts talking about a couple guys. Starts with Quintin Morris:
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EfDL9jkjRbQ

    Now for some game footage vs Buffalo:
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s0XXYbBZAA0

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    Re: Best 'Sleeper' candidates that fit the Steelers

    Pete Werner 6'3" 240lbs ILB OSU: Mid round ILB for the Steelers. If they don't take one of the monsters in round 1/2 this could be the next guy with the biggest upside in the Steelers' defensive scheme.

    Start with an article and interview type video with play breakdown by Werner:
    https://lettermenrow.com/ohio-state-...ft-film-study/

    Highlights in coverage and pass rush and run stop:
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KBS-HgXFwz0

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    Re: Best 'Sleeper' candidates that fit the Steelers

    Quote Originally Posted by Born2Steel View Post
    Pete Werner 6'3" 240lbs ILB OSU: Mid round ILB for the Steelers. If they don't take one of the monsters in round 1/2 this could be the next guy with the biggest upside in the Steelers' defensive scheme.

    Start with an article and interview type video with play breakdown by Werner:
    https://lettermenrow.com/ohio-state-...ft-film-study/

    Highlights in coverage and pass rush and run stop:
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KBS-HgXFwz0

    I like him and had Werner in a few of my mocks.

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    Re: Best 'Sleeper' candidates that fit the Steelers

    Dylan Moss 6´3" 235lbs Alabama

    Missed 2019 because of a knee injury

    Daniel Jeremiah's take.

    https://www.nfl.com/news/scouting-dy...-of-myles-jack


    Highlights


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    Re: Best 'Sleeper' candidates that fit the Steelers

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ctx8...re=emb_rel_end

    USC LB Palaie Gaoteote: I haven't looked much into his 'fit' for the Steelers, but this guy hits a ton.

    Well nevermind. I just found out he did not enter the draft, he entered the transfer portal. May be playing for the Hurricanes next season.???

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    Re: Best 'Sleeper' candidates that fit the Steelers

    Quote Originally Posted by Born2Steel View Post
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ctx8...re=emb_rel_end

    USC LB Palaie Gaoteote: I haven't looked much into his 'fit' for the Steelers, but this guy hits a ton.

    Well nevermind. I just found out he did not enter the draft, he entered the transfer portal. May be playing for the Hurricanes next season.???
    The guy is fast and a hammer!

    There seems to be a lot of young guys changing their minds about hitting the draft this year and going back to school. I think it's good these kids are thinking and waiting another year.

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    Re: Best 'Sleeper' candidates that fit the Steelers

    Quote Originally Posted by Born2Steel View Post
    Quintin Morris 6'4" 240lbs TE Bowling Green: Another MAC TE that I kept seeing his name when looking at other tE prospects. Made me curious so I dug a little more. Morris is a later round prospect that would most likely start out as a complimentary TE with Ebron being the focus. A good in-line blocker that can also be flexed out as a receiver. Very good size and athleticism.

    This article is a very good read on Quintin Morris and his strengths:
    https://www.profootballnetwork.com/q...een-tight-end/

    Not finding much BG film footage highlighting Morris, but this is from the Senior Bowl with PFN analysts talking about a couple guys. Starts with Quintin Morris:
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EfDL9jkjRbQ

    Now for some game footage vs Buffalo:
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s0XXYbBZAA0
    Below is video of BG vs Buffalo and Morris is highlighted. People can look at it and decide what they think of his quickness off the line, route running, hands, pad level and base in blocking, etc.

    I dont think he did much at senior bowl week to impress and is likely a late day 3 pick or UDFA. Kylen Granson from SMU got more buzz in Mobile, as did Hunter Long (BC), Kenny Yeboah (Ole Miss), Tre McKitty (Georgia), John Bates(Boise St), Noah Gray (Duke) at the TE spot.


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    Re: Best 'Sleeper' candidates that fit the Steelers

    As a candidate for one of those 4th round picks I would not be opposed to Sam Ehlinger 6'3" 225lbs QB Texas. Not a huge fan but he reminds me a lot of Baker Mayfield when I watch him play. Again, I do not expect the Steelers to draft a QB this year, I'm just throwing out 'sleeper' candidates.

    Here is some comparison with Dak Prescott, I think: https://nflmocks.com/2020/06/29/2021...-sam-ehlinger/

    This article provides a more complicated look at what Ehlinger brings, or doesn't, or might. Yahoo Sports so it is what it is:
    https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-draft-w...183425653.html

    Career stats with a highlight reel: http://www.tankathon.com/nfl/players/sam-ehlinger

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    Re: Best 'Sleeper' candidates that fit the Steelers

    ECU WR Blake Proehl 6'1" 186lbs. Son of 17yr NFL receiver Ricky Proehl. : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H7XjArGfiFc

    UT OC/OG Brandon Kennedy 6'3" 300lbs. 2020 William V. Campbell Trophy finalist. Transferred from Bama after sophomore year.:
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QKHVm9ghDWU

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    Re: Best 'Sleeper' candidates that fit the Steelers

    Larry Rountree, RB Missouri 5'10" 210 lbs.


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    Re: Best 'Sleeper' candidates that fit the Steelers

    Quote Originally Posted by pczach View Post
    Larry Rountree, RB Missouri 5'10" 210 lbs.

    Was actually looking at this exact video a couple days ago. Another good looking prospect likely on day 3.

    Senior Bowl Performance

    Rountree had a good Senior Bowl week. The Missouri running back showed off good athletic upside, despite weighing in at a healthy 216 pounds. He also showcased consistent playmaking ability in team drills at practice. He wasn’t as impactful during the game, amassing just four carries for seven yards. However, he did show off some receiving ability, catching two passes for 19 yards. Rountree is likely still a Day 3 pick, but his value is increasing after his Senior Bowl showing
    https://www.profootballnetwork.com/l...-running-back/

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    Re: Best 'Sleeper' candidates that fit the Steelers

    Here is another RB. Khalil Herbert- Va. Tech. 5'9" 204 lbs.




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    Re: Best 'Sleeper' candidates that fit the Steelers

    Going to bump this post here. I think Marshall RB Brenden Knox warrants a look at on multiple threads. For those fans completely done with 'Benny Ball', Knox is a short yardage/goal-line specialist that was not utilized in the passing game much. From a size to power view he fits the Steelers mold.

    Brenden Knox 6'0" 223lbs RB Marshall:
    A scouting report from SI: https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/prospec...gs/brendenknox

    A highlights reel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kOgdGp2n4LI

    This is just a fun RB drills video with Knox, J.Williams, and Doaks. Actual drills start about the 2min mark: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A5Mz_sfFYqo

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    Re: Best 'Sleeper' candidates that fit the Steelers

    speaking on Gerrid Doaks(from last post video)...

    Gerrid Doaks 5'11" 230lbs RB Cincinnati:

    Scouting report from SI: https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/prospec...gs/gerriddoaks

    Highlights video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AFL3nuVdBvk

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    Re: Best 'Sleeper' candidates that fit the Steelers

    I found this SI scouting report and grading system on 2021 OC draft prospects interesting. They use a point system for 'current' rank and put that up against 'potential' rank. The order in how the top OCs fall in this system is a little surprising.

    https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/prospec...fensive-center

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    Re: Best 'Sleeper' candidates that fit the Steelers

    Quote Originally Posted by El-Gonzo Jackson View Post
    Was actually looking at this exact video a couple days ago. Another good looking prospect likely on day 3.

    Senior Bowl Performance

    Rountree had a good Senior Bowl week. The Missouri running back showed off good athletic upside, despite weighing in at a healthy 216 pounds. He also showcased consistent playmaking ability in team drills at practice. He wasn’t as impactful during the game, amassing just four carries for seven yards. However, he did show off some receiving ability, catching two passes for 19 yards. Rountree is likely still a Day 3 pick, but his value is increasing after his Senior Bowl showing
    https://www.profootballnetwork.com/l...-running-back/


    He's not the most dynamic guy, but I love his quickness through the hole. It could serve him well at the next level.

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    Re: Best 'Sleeper' candidates that fit the Steelers

    Max Duffy 6'1" 190 lbs. Punter UK

    Bio: https://ukathletics.com/sports/footb...max-duffy/7933


    Turned Heads at Senior Bowl: Scroll down for the tweets

    https://kentuckysportsradio.com/foot...e-senior-bowl/

    Highlights:


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    Re: Best 'Sleeper' candidates that fit the Steelers

    Zack Davidson 6'7" TE Central Missouri:
    https://www.nfldraftdiamonds.com/2020/03/zach-davidson/

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    Re: Best 'Sleeper' candidates that fit the Steelers

    Quote Originally Posted by pczach View Post
    He's not the most dynamic guy, but I love his quickness through the hole. It could serve him well at the next level.
    Yes, seems to have quick feet for a 216lb guy. I like one of the goal line highlights where he just put his shoulders down and used leg drive to finish the run and score the TD. One thing is that he seems to run high, rather that he doesnt sink his hips and break down much when making a cut, but as you say, he isn't the most dynamic athlete.

    Have a look at Khalil Herbert videos I put up earlier on this thread. Looks to do a good job of picking a hole in the VT zone blocking offense and has the acceleration to get thru it and speed to break off some long runs. More of a a guy with glide that lacks the lateral "suddeness", so more of a 1 cut runner. Not sure that he is a workhorse RB, as much as a solid rotational guy that fits a ZBS system who can run away from some LB's on the 2nd level.

    Herbert compounds his speed and explosiveness with solid vision. He doesn’t throw himself into the pile on every run. Rather, Herbert is patient in the backfield. He’s decisive when he sees a lane, and when he doesn’t, he has enough speed to stay alive as he roams toward the sideline. When Herbert has space to turn upfield, that’s where his burst shines for real. With little slivers of space, Herbert can get over five yards with abrupt quickness.

    At 5-foot-9, 212 pounds, Herbert doesn’t have great size, but it’s enough for a running back of his mold. With his relative density, Herbert is proficient at shaking off arm tackles. Additionally, his leg churn and foot speed allow him to maximize his frame, and he has enough fluidity in crowds to sneak away and get to the open field.

    https://www.profootballnetwork.com/k...-running-back/

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    Re: Best 'Sleeper' candidates that fit the Steelers

    Dax Milne 6'1" 190LBS WR BYU

    Milne is a pit-bull in the blocking department even at 190 lbs.


    Draft Scout: https://draftscout.com/dsprofile.php...DraftYear=2022

    Higlights:


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    Re: Best 'Sleeper' candidates that fit the Steelers

    Quote Originally Posted by El-Gonzo Jackson View Post
    Yes, seems to have quick feet for a 216lb guy. I like one of the goal line highlights where he just put his shoulders down and used leg drive to finish the run and score the TD. One thing is that he seems to run high, rather that he doesnt sink his hips and break down much when making a cut, but as you say, he isn't the most dynamic athlete.

    Have a look at Khalil Herbert videos I put up earlier on this thread. Looks to do a good job of picking a hole in the VT zone blocking offense and has the acceleration to get thru it and speed to break off some long runs. More of a a guy with glide that lacks the lateral "suddeness", so more of a 1 cut runner. Not sure that he is a workhorse RB, as much as a solid rotational guy that fits a ZBS system who can run away from some LB's on the 2nd level.

    Herbert compounds his speed and explosiveness with solid vision. He doesn’t throw himself into the pile on every run. Rather, Herbert is patient in the backfield. He’s decisive when he sees a lane, and when he doesn’t, he has enough speed to stay alive as he roams toward the sideline. When Herbert has space to turn upfield, that’s where his burst shines for real. With little slivers of space, Herbert can get over five yards with abrupt quickness.

    At 5-foot-9, 212 pounds, Herbert doesn’t have great size, but it’s enough for a running back of his mold. With his relative density, Herbert is proficient at shaking off arm tackles. Additionally, his leg churn and foot speed allow him to maximize his frame, and he has enough fluidity in crowds to sneak away and get to the open field.

    https://www.profootballnetwork.com/k...-running-back/


    I like him too. Already looked at him and like him for many of the reasons you mention. There are always good backs that aren't at the top of the draft.

    You are correct about Rountree running a little high. It's something he should try to improve, but it's difficult to change running styles.

    In this thread I could easily list 50 players that aren't at the top of positional rankings.
    Last edited by pczach; 02-21-2021 at 03:36 PM.

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    Re: Best 'Sleeper' candidates that fit the Steelers

    Quote Originally Posted by pczach View Post
    I like him too. Already looked at him and like him for many of the reasons you mention. There are always good backs that aren't at the top of the draft.

    You are correct about Rountree running a little high. It's something he should try to improve, but it's difficult to change running styles.

    In this thread I could easily list 50 players that aren't at the top of positional rankings.
    Trying to find those guys that are not at the top, yet fit what the Steelers do. There are a few very talented edge players in this class but most are smaller than how the Steelers like to play. Perfect example is Chris Rumph out of Duke. He is highly skilled and on some radars but not a player that fits the Steelers' scheme. The RBs I have listed typically are under the radar but fit the size that the Steelers usually draft. The TEs are a tougher group because they are all over the place as far as size, and how they are used. EVERY single TE I have studied this far pretty much gets a clean release off the line and most get passed off mid route, leaving them wide open for passes. Hard to tell just how they translate. Anyway, list all the prospects you like. It's fun for me to sort through them and decide for myself.

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    Re: Best 'Sleeper' candidates that fit the Steelers

    Late round SS/ST Ben DeLuca from Charlotte. Same school as Alex Highsmith. High motor strong safety prospect with excellent tackling skills and above average ball skills. No idea on coverage skills. All highlights are highschool for some reason.

    Ben Deluca 6'1" 215lbs SS Charlotte: All time career tackles leader in Charlotte football history.(313 tackles in 3 seasons)

    Looking forward to finding more info on this prospect.


    Highschool for now:
    Jr year: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/2669194...1ddc1b004bb7e6

    Sr year: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/2669194...e96b6380184446

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