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.
#1 Tony Fields II/LB/West Virginia/6’1”, 222 LBs
The Good
-Rangy, sideline-to-sideline linebacker who profiles as new-age defender
-Sure tackler when he arrives to the ball on time
-Instinctive linebacker that flashes ability to process quickly; doesn’t get caught up in pre-snap window dressing
-Physical player that thrives on contact and emotions in game
-Fires downhill quickly against the run, showcases ability to slip blocks and make plays
-Versatile piece that can move all over defensive front in the box; showed ability to rush off the edge
The Bad
-Small, thin frame for interior linebacker
-Does not have the length or power to fend off blockers against the run consistently
-Gets caught locking eyes on the quarterback in his drops, leaving him unaware of routes entering his zone
-Needs to develop hand usage and general rush plan to win off the edge in the NFL
-Shows some poor tackling technique early on in games on tape, flying around looking to set early tone
Bio
-Graduate transfer from Arizona that started all 10 games for West Virginia in 2020
-Started in all 37 career games played at Arizona
– Earned freshman All-America honors by ESPN.