From now until the 2020 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.
#10 Stephen Sullivan/WR-TE LSU – 6’5 252
The Good
– Large frame with ability to add weight, will be severe mismatch problem for LBs/DBs downfield
– “Above the rim” type player capable of winning contested catches deep downfield, where he made his most impactful plays
– Reliable hands who plucks away from his frame with size to box out smaller defenders (which is pretty much everyone who covers him)
– Fluid, smooth route runner who creates separation at top of route
– Long-strider and less of a build-up runner than you’d expect, accelerates quickly and threat in open field when he has a runway
– Versatile, worked at wide receiver and tight end, and shows a desire to try to block
– Shows plus body control and spatial awareness while in the air
– Good football IQ and works hard to get in QB’s vision in scramble drills and finding grass against zone coverage
– Lots of upside, can be a much better player than he currently is
The Bad
– Undefined role for the NFL, teams will evaluate him at different positions, WR or TE
– Far too poor of a blocker to be an in-line tight end right now
– Lacks strength and gets overwhelmed at point of attack, struggles with leverage, pad level, and initial steps
– Never asked to line up in a three point stance even when he was used at tight end, always in two-point
– Lacks obvious lateral agility due to size, can outrun players but won’t run around many
– Low level of production and didn’t start, played rotational snaps and often got to play fresh
– Numbers fell off with position switch, simply not a lot of tape to evaluate him properly, and is a tough projection for NFL
Bio
– Career: 46 receptions 712 yards (15.