From now until the 2017 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.
Tarell Basham/OLB Ohio – 6’3/6 269
The Good
– NFL size with the height/weight/length you look for (34 1/4 arms, 10 1/4 hands)
– Heavy hands who strikes with a violent punch
– Uses length well to create space in run and pass game
– Has vision and hand use to find the ball and work off blocks against the run
– Big lower half and shows functional strength, does great job to hold the POA in the run game
– Shows good first step when he manages to time the snap, able to one-gap and penetrate vs the run
– Runs hard to the ball and is an impactful tackler, like his effort, no loafs
The Bad
– Tight-hipped and has trouble winning the edge with speed
– Can disappear as a pass rusher when unable to win with power, not much of a finesse guy
– Mistimes the snap far too often and is often late off the ball as a pass rusher
– Most experience came with hand down and going forward, didn’t drop much and looked uncomfortable when asked to do so
– Will overrun plays and lose his run fits
Bio
– 2 1/2 year starter, 37 total for the Bobcats
– Career: 38.