Combine standout fits the Steelers standard
This prospect could revive the franchise’s most storied position
One phrase that permeates through the walls of the UPMC complex in Pittsburgh is "the standard is the standard".
An adage coined by Mike Tomlin, it represents the expectation that everyone in the organization abides by on a daily basis.
Tied for the most Super Bowls in league history, the tradition of excellence, particularly on defense is long-lasting in Pittsburgh.
And while the defense rebounded last year, the renowned position of linebacker did not.
From Kevin Greene to Ryan Shazier, the defense has thrived on inside linebackers that can patrol the field and lead their teammates.
Being without a difference-maker at the second level has shown in recent years, as missed draft picks and patch-work free agents haven't amounted to much.
While there are more pressing needs at the top of the draft (offensive line and corner) pick 49 of round two is prime positioning to select a linebacker, with a certain someone pegged to be selected in this range.
That someone is former Iowa Hawkeye, Jack Campbell.
Aggregated as the consensus 59th overall pick prior to the Combine, Campbell's performance will certainly bump him up a few spots, but that shouldn't worry Pittsburgh fans.
If Cambell's draft stock continues to rise as we approach April, Pittsburgh can comfortably trade up, as second-round picks are easier to move compared to first-rounders.
It should be noted they also own the 32nd overall pick, which could be packaged in a trade-down scenario to acquire more draft capital while staying in range for Campbell.
Well, the combine numbers are great, but how does Campbell look on tape? Glad you asked
A very cerebral player with four years of college experience and a decorated resume (Butkus award winner in 2022 for nation's best linebacker) your thinking he's a "what you see is what you get" kind of prospect right?
Wrong.
This is teach tape when it comes to zone dropping as a linebacker. Campbell mimics the path of the back, before opening to space and making a fantastic interception.
When you watch Iowa film, you see a player that is constantly around the ball. Campbell flows to play-side runs as if he was in the offenses team meeting that week.
One particular area where the Steelers defense has struggled over the past two seasons is run support, specifically at the second level of the defense.
As an immediate upgrade to the run fit, and with functional athleticism in coverage, the rangy middle linebacker almost makes too much sense for Pittsburgh.
If any prospect should dawn the colors of his alma mater in the NFL, it's Jack Campbell.
Featured image via © Bryon Houlgrave/The Register / USA TODAY NETWORK
