MOBILE, ALThe Pittsburgh Steelers concentrated nearly entirely on defensive linemen during the Senior Bowl. Teryl Austin, the defensive coordinator, Omar Khan, and head coach Mike Tomlin hardly ever looked away from that position group.
One player’s stature and talent at moving made him stand out from the others. That would be Deone Walker of Kentucky. Walker, who weighs 340 pounds and is 6 feet 7 inches tall, has an explosive appearance.
He thinks he can play at three-technique instead of being a real nose tackle since he is so explosive and moves so well for his stature.
At the Senior Bowl, Walker told PennLive, “I consider myself a three-technique.” I consider myself to be a three-technique, but I can slip down to play nose tackle if injuries occur.
That is a huge three-technique, but despite his exceptional qualities, Walker’s pad level is a problem that many draft analysts have pointed to as the reason he will probably not be selected in the first round.
In addition to his uneven motor on tape, Walker is probably a second-rounder in need of improvement. However, because they think they can teach them up, the Steelers love to pick players with a pedigree who need to improve.
Therefore, it was not shocking when Tomlin showed interest in Walker during Wednesday’s practice. Walker claimed he was rendered dumbfounded by that encounter.
It’s frightening. Regarding his encounter with Tomlin, Walker remarked, “I got butterflies in my stomach a little bit.” He mentioned that they need a trench player, so it was encouraging to know that he wants to get down and get to know me as a player. About a head coach, that speaks volumes.
Walker takes a cue from Cam Heyward, the standout defensive tackle for the Steelers. Given Walker’s strength and pass-rushing style, which involves a lot of power moves, it makes sense.
A lot of power rushers now like watching Heyward play. Walker is no exception.
Regarding Heyward, Walker remarked, “I love his speed to power.” I would argue that his raise and two-to-one bull and stab are among my best movements. Therefore, it is game-wrecking to emulate it.
Walker will probably cost the Steelers their second-round pick if they want him. Although the rawness of his skill set puts him at some risk, the raw tools are amazing. The only question is whether that will persuade the Steelers to select him over other guys.
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