Pittsburgh Steelers: 5 First-round targets in 2018 NFL Draft

Rashaan Evans, LB, Alabama

With Ryan Shazier out for at least the 2018 season and what is likely to be the rest of his career, the Steelers need to address the future at the position. Free agency brought Jon Bostic from Indianapolis, yet Bostic is merely a band-aid for a long-term wound. Rashaan Evans, for what it’s worth, has been compared Shazier due to his incredible speed and power when he makes contact. The best way to describe Evans? He’s often the hammer and not the nail.

Evans, despite missing time due to lingering injuries (another Shazier comp), managed to lead the Crimson Tide in tackles with 74, 13 of those in the backfield for a loss to go along with six sacks. Last season was Evans’ first year as a full-time starter at Alabama, leaving a lot of growth and potential to be paired with physical tools to make him a first round pick in this draft.

Strengths

Very instinctual football player, has ability to roam sideline to sideline. Fills gaps quickly, meets ball carriers with force. Has passion for the game, and the traits to one day become a good inside linebacker in the NFL. Freakish speed for his position.

Weaknesses

Is he durable? Nagging minor injuries may cause him to miss time on a consistent basis. Considered under-sized for his position, wasn’t asked to perform in coverage much at Alabama. Can improve missing tackles in space, and sometimes finds himself over-pursuing.

How he fits with the Steelers

All things considered, Evans would be the ideal replacement for Shazier. His inexperience as a full-time starter shouldn’t be weighed against him, as he likely wouldn’t be asked to play right away. Has proven his worth on special teams, which is a sure-fire way to earn a spot on a Mike Tomlin coached team. Pittsburgh missed Shazier’s aggressiveness and elite speed in the later parts of 2017, and Evans could supply exactly that for years to come.