From now until the 2019 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.
#99 Khalen Saunders / DT Western Illinois – 6’0” 324
The Good
- Athletic with stout frame and solid ability to anchor
- Play strength to stack and shed blockers
- Good lateral agility to move with and counter blockers on outside runs
- Shows quickness to slip around blockers
- Good pursuit and chase to the outside
- Like to punish when tackling
The Bad
- Lacks arm length you want in DL (32 ¼ inches)
- Relied on his athletic ability and needs to improve overall technique
- Adequate burst at the snap
- Needs to process and identify blocks more quickly
- Pops up out of his stance instead of driving forward
- Pass rush plan in limited
- Hand usage in pass rush needs improvement
Bio
- Career – 172 tackles, 107 solo, 16 sacks, 34.