The Athletic names the UDFA that fits best with the Steelers
While the glitz and glamor of team building lie in free agency and draft weekend, the bones of many teams are made up of un-drafted free agents. These players choose their place of work, as opposed to their peers who were selected in seven rounds over the course of three days. But the climb to […]
While the glitz and glamor of team building lie in free agency and draft weekend, the bones of many teams are made up of un-drafted free agents.
These players choose their place of work, as opposed to their peers who were selected in seven rounds over the course of three days.
But the climb to make the 53-man roster is much steeper than those selected on the first two days of the draft. That being said, once everyone gets on the grass, nothing else matters. So let's see who Nick Baumgardner of The Athletic thinks is the best fit in Pittsburgh.
Trevor Downing, OL
Here is what Baumgardner had to say about Downing and his fit on the Steelers' offense:
Downing, despite being light (6-3, 299 pounds), has started full seasons at center and both guard spots. He’s better at guard, but his lack of length is going to be an issue there. If he can keep getting stronger, he has the smarts to stick.
I watched Downing's tape over the course of the season and came away fairly impressed. He's an athletic player who may lack the sand in his pants to hold up at the point, but he has potential. Here is my full evaluation of Downing.
One Liner:
A versatile interior lineman whose skill set is inclusive of multiple run schemes and singled-up protection.
Pros:
- Handles shade while anchoring vs mugged backer
- Active hands consistently places well and gets underneath pads
- Calls for slides and protection changes
- Agile in space, moves to the second level and latches on backers
- Great Awareness
- Stout Anchor, no issue placing him over true nose
- Overall movement skills including change of direction is admirable
- Able to play in both gap and zone run schemes thanks to his strentgh and short area movement
- Good size for a center who has played guard also
Cons:
- Quick defenders can beat him inside,
- Threatened by upfield rush via blitzes
- On the ground too often
Summary:
Downing has some of the best tape from interior linemen in the country. He shows little flaws in his play with an ability to handle pressure, move linemen, and reach the second level.
Downing is truly a sleeper and when the calendar turns to September, don't be surprised if he's on the roster as a depth piece and maybe, even battling for the starting center position.
