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.
#9 Daelin Hayes/EDGE Notre Dame – 6’3/6 261
The Good
– NFL frame, good bulk and carries weight well
– Versatile player, spent most of his time playing on his feet, and moved up and down the line
– Worked at both EDGE spots and moved to 3t/off-ball in obvious passing situations
– Good effort player who runs hard to the football
– Solid tackler and finisher
– Best pass rush move is dip/rip, able to get under taller offensive tackles
– Able to counter when tackles overset, inside spin shown to be effective
– Experience dropping into zone and shows hip fluidity turning and running
– Capable of stacking and shedding TEs in the run game
– Regarded as high character and a leader, good person for the locker room
The Bad
– Average to below average length for frame (32 inch arms)
– Lacks defining physical trait
– Only adequate athleticism and burst off the line
– Shows ankle tightness when trying to corner with speed, too often and easily steered upfield
– Doesn’t have enough strength to make his bull rush impactful, anchored and rebuffed by OTs
– Disappears too much from games, especially as a pass rusher
– Tends to get washed out in the run game when base blocked by offensive tackles
– Below average production, especially sack totals
– Older prospect and upside appears limited
– History of shoulder injuries?