From now until the 2021 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.
#56 TJ Slaton/ DT / Florida – 6’4, 330lb
The Good
-Possesses decent speed and explosiveness for his size and position
-Has a quick first step out of his stance
-Average arm length (32 5/8”) to engage interior blockers at the LOS
-Enormous frame with thickly built upper body and lower half
-Has the strength and power to overwhelm single blocks on the interior
-Above-average athleticism allows him to push the pocket and generate pressure as a pass rusher
-Utilizes the club move as well as a straight bull rush as a pass rusher
The Bad
-Has had constant struggles maintaining a good playing weight, ballooning up over 360lb at times
-Motor runs hot and cold and will fatigue quickly in needed to play late into the game or a lot of consecutive snaps
-Will stand up far too often, not playing with adequate bend to sit in and anchor against the run
-Gave a lot more ground against the run than you would like to see from a player of his stature
-Needs to fight off blocks better with more urgency to control his gap
Bio
-Senior Prospect from Fort Lauderdale, FL
-Attended the powerhouse American Heritage HS under coach Patrick Surtain, playing on both the offensive and defensive line
-Played extensively on the basketball team as a multisport athlete
-Played in all 11 games for the Gators as a true freshman, recording 11 tackles and 1.