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.
#24/27 Ar’Darius Washington/S TCU – 5’8 178
The Good
– Physical, downhill, and aggressive nature makes him play bigger than he’s listed
– Fills run with authority, throws weight around and pound-for-pound, a good hitter
– Reliable open field tackler with strong upper body
– Does well in breaking down and coming to balance as a tackler
– Takes good angles to the football in run and pass
– Shows plus hands, ability to track and pluck ball away from his body
– Closes well in pass game and disruptive at catch point
– Versatile, moved around the defense
– Young player, still growing
The Bad
– Undersized and would be one of the smallest safeties in the league
– Average to below average athlete, lacks foot speed in open field, can struggle even when he has the angle
– Shows stiffness when asked to change direction, tight-hipped player
– May lack true home/fit at NFL level
– Vulnerable to biting on playfakes and offensive window dressing, caught out of position and beat deep too often
– Didn’t make many plays in backfield despite run-stopping ability
Bio
– Two-year starter for Horned Frogs
– Career: 86 tackles (1.