As we delve further into the Pittsburgh Steelers offseason, our attention has begun to shift towards the draft. Like we’ve done all throughout the offseason, these reports will cover the prospects of the 2015 NFL Draft, placing an emphasis on those who could help the Steelers the most.
A Day Three prospect with a remarkable story. Buffalo defensive end Kristjan Sokoli.
#90 – Kristjan Sokoli/DE Buffalo: 6’5 290
The Good
– Looks the part, long, 34 inch arms, and incredible workout numbers that put him on the map
– Gets full arm extension and creates separation between he and the lineman
– Shows solid first step, initial explosion, and capable of getting upfield and penetrating
– Awareness as a pass rusher, gets his hands up when he can’t get to the quarterback
– High-motor player
– Miscast in college, new position and scheme will turn him into a better player
– One-of-a-kind upbringing, family instilled work ethic in him
The Bad
– Lacks strength, unable to anchor and a liability against the run
– Easily blown off the ball and extremely prone to getting turned, frequently unable to stay square to the LOS
– Isn’t strong enough to maintain penetration after initial explosion, easily anchored by opposing lineman
– Struggles with leverage, allows lineman under his pads too often
– Lacks impact as a pass rusher, at best average hand use, and no real moves
– Routinely stuck on his blocks against the run and as a pass rusher
– May not play to his measurable, no special movement skills aside from initial burst
– Looked terrible against top competition he faced
– Statistically unproductive career, most numbers came against inferior competition
Other
– 2014: 32 tackles 3 TFL 0 sacks
– 2013: 29 tackles 5 TFL 2.