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The Pittsburgh Steelers added a big, athletic defensive lineman to the fold with their third-round pick. Texas A&M’s DeMarvin Leal will join former college teammate Buddy Johnson on the Steelers.
The addition of Leal adds much needed young depth to the Steelers defensive front. With Cam Heyward turning 32, Tyson Alaulu 34, Chris Wormley, and Stephon Tuitt 28, they’re not getting any younger. And there still has been no definite answer on whether or not Tuitt is going to return to the Steelers or not. Even if he does come back, how is he going to play after missing a complete year and reportedly putting on weight.
Texas A&M Aggies defensive lineman DeMarvin Leal (8) celebrates after making a stop against the Auburn Tigers during the second quarter of an SEC game at Kyle Field Saturday, Sept. 21, 2019, in College Station, TX. The Tigers won 28-20.
The Steelers found value with Tuitt when he slipped into the second round coming out of Notre Dame, and it appears they feel like they stole Leal in the third round.
NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah had Leal ranked as the 89th best prospect on his big board, he was selected at spot 84. NFL.com also placed a third-round grade on Leal.
The reaction to Leal has been positive across social media, and from every media outlet. There was one NFC scout who apparently didn’t love his film, though.
Regardless of that scouts opinion there is a lot to love about the statistics he put up in 2021. He was named first team All-American and recorded 12.5 tackles for a loss and 8.5 sacks while making 12 starts. Steelers defensive line coach Karl Dunbar visited with Leal during Texas A&M’s Pro Day, and was impressed according to Austin.
Leal should find plenty of playing time as a rookie with his versatility. The Steelers have been trying to find ways to allow Heyward to play less reps for a few seasons now, but injuries have curbed those thoughts. But with Isaiahh Loudermilk showing potential as a rookie, and Leal being able to rotate from nose to end they should have more opportunity to keep Heyward fresh.
The Steelers will expect Leal to add about 20 pounds to his frame this off-season.
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The addition of Leal adds much needed young depth to the Steelers defensive front. With Cam Heyward turning 32, Tyson Alaulu 34, Chris Wormley, and Stephon Tuitt 28, they’re not getting any younger. And there still has been no definite answer on whether or not Tuitt is going to return to the Steelers or not. Even if he does come back, how is he going to play after missing a complete year and reportedly putting on weight.
Texas A&M Aggies defensive lineman DeMarvin Leal (8) celebrates after making a stop against the Auburn Tigers during the second quarter of an SEC game at Kyle Field Saturday, Sept. 21, 2019, in College Station, TX. The Tigers won 28-20.
The Steelers found value with Tuitt when he slipped into the second round coming out of Notre Dame, and it appears they feel like they stole Leal in the third round.
NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah had Leal ranked as the 89th best prospect on his big board, he was selected at spot 84. NFL.com also placed a third-round grade on Leal.
The reaction to Leal has been positive across social media, and from every media outlet. There was one NFC scout who apparently didn’t love his film, though.
Regardless of that scouts opinion there is a lot to love about the statistics he put up in 2021. He was named first team All-American and recorded 12.5 tackles for a loss and 8.5 sacks while making 12 starts. Steelers defensive line coach Karl Dunbar visited with Leal during Texas A&M’s Pro Day, and was impressed according to Austin.
Steelers Strike Gold In Round 3 With DeMarvin Leal
Leal should find plenty of playing time as a rookie with his versatility. The Steelers have been trying to find ways to allow Heyward to play less reps for a few seasons now, but injuries have curbed those thoughts. But with Isaiahh Loudermilk showing potential as a rookie, and Leal being able to rotate from nose to end they should have more opportunity to keep Heyward fresh.
The Steelers will expect Leal to add about 20 pounds to his frame this off-season.
Kenny Pickett – “This Was Always My Dream”
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