Steelers draft DeMarvin Leal in 3rd round
The Pittsburgh Steelers selected Texas A&M defensive lineman DeMarvin Leal in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft, No. 84 overall.
Leal was a versatile pass-rusher at Texas A&M but will likely slide in on Pittsburgh's defensive line at the next level. The Steelers lacked depth at the position last season, relying on Chris Wormley due to the absence of Stephon Tuitt.
The former Aggie registered 8.5 sacks last season. Meanwhile, the Steelers' pass-rush ranked top of the league with 55 sacks in 2021.
Scouting profile: DeMarvin Leal
| School | Height | Weight | 40 time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas A&M | 6'4 | 283 | 5.00 |
In college, Leal was an impact player all across Texas A&M's defensive front. The challenge for him at the next level will be finding the best spot for his skill set. While he lacks size for an every-down role on the inside, he doesn't have the athleticism for a team to deploy him full-time on the edge, either. Leal's ideal position is a hybrid of the two. An early-down role on the edge is likely his best opportunity to hold up in the running game, and the 3 technique is where he'll make his mark and get after the quarterback. Leal's athleticism will play up on the inside, allowing him to utilize an advanced rush repertoire in potentially establishing himself as a disruptive force on passing downs.