One of the two new additions to the Pittsburgh Steelers roster is defensive end Caushaud Lyons. I must admit I knew little about the rookie UDFA initially. So we’ll treat him like a scouting report. There’s less tape to go off of, I watched all of his preseasons snaps but that still only totals somewhere between 50-60 snaps, making the evaluation a little tougher. Much less interested in college tape for someone who has played in the NFL.
Caushaud Lyons/DE Tusculum – 6’4/4 295
The Good
– NFL measurables, ideal height and weight who tested extremely well
– Displays a powerful punch capable of knocking lineman off balanced upon contact
– Array of pass rushing moves, active hands and works hard at disengaging as a pass rusher
– Good enough motor that could be a little more consistent but overall runs to the football
– Adaquate first step for the position
– Three year starter
– Burst onto scene with tremendous production in senior season
– Appeared to show some scheme versatility in college
The Bad
– Sits too tall in his stance, hurts his first step and causes him to play high off the ball
– Struggles to stay square to the line of scrimmage against the run, teasily turned and washed
– Capable work off blocks but unable to finish plays
– Will have to adjust to new scheme and position, played three technique in Tampa Bay almost exclusively
– Making big jump from a small, Division II school that almost never produces NFL players
Other
– Three year starter at Tusculum
– 2014: 89 tackles, 19 TFL, 9 sacks (all led team)
– 2014 Gene Upshaw Award Finalist for best D2 defensive lineman in the country
– Ran a 4.