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.
#11 Brandon Bell / LB / 6’1 233 lbs
The Good:
– Plays with great awareness
– Keeps his eye on ball carrier while fighting off blocks
– Understands his zone depth and covers it well
– Recognizes cutbacks and misdirection handoffs quickly
– Has a nose for being around the football
The Bad:
– Lacks speed and athleticism to be a sideline to sideline linebacker
– Struggles to fight off blocks at second level
– Injury concerns, missed six games over last two years
– Stiff hips, struggles to square up ball carriers changing direction
– Upper body strength (15 bench press reps at Pro Day)
Bio:
– 2016: 89 tackles, 7.