From now until the 2018 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.
#50 Vita Vea /Washington NG/DT– 6’5” 340 lbs.
The Good
–Very light feet for a man his size
–Overpowers blockers from the snap
–Striking blows on offensive linemen
–Keeps moving up and down line finding the ball
–Strong run defender
–Hard to move when using balanced stance
–Can play up and down the defensive line
The Bad
–Despite being a junior, Vea is already 23 years old
–Tends to overextend and lose balance
–Can get to high out of stance which causes him to lose power advantage
–Has some issues combating double teams
–Impatient using technique, if not immediately successful will go back to power
–Needs to improve pass defense and develop other move than bull-rush
–Motor runs hot and cold
Bio
–2017 Second Team All-American
–2017 Pat Tillman Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year
–College statistics: started 18 collegiate games, finished with 100 tackles (66 solo), 6 passes defensed, 2 forced fumbles, 2 blocked kicks, 8 sacks, and returned a punt 17 yards.