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

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LAS VEGAS, NV – DECEMBER 16: Leighton Vander Esch #38 of the Boise State Broncos celebrates with the trophy after the Broncos defeated the Oregon Ducks in the Las Vegas Bowl at Sam Boyd Stadium on December 16, 2017 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Boise State won 38-28. (Photo by David Becker/Getty Images) /

Leighton Vander Esch, LB, Boise State

If Evans is off the board by pick No. 28, another favorably suitor for the Steelers is Leighton Vander Esch. Lance Zierlein of NFL.com was quoted as saying “Vander Esch is a loose-hipped, instinctive linebacker who played in 2017 like he had a GPS tracker on the football”, and when you put the tape on, Zierlein’s statement turns from chuckles to hilariously true. First team all-conference in the Mountain West, Vander Esch made 141 tackles (8.5 for loss) along with four forced fumbles and four sacks as well this previous season at Boise State.

Vander Esch is a big presence on the field standing at 6-4 with a solid 256 pounds on his frame. For as big as he is, his hustle on the field is something that immediately jumps out at you. His change of direction and agility on the defensive side of the ball can be pointed to as one of the main reasons Vander Esch left Boise State as one of the most decorated linebackers in program history.

The former Bronco is essentially an every down linebacker who should find great success in this league. What scouts really value in Vander Esch is his versatility, as he is able to provide support in run stoppage and drops back in coverage successfully as well. While he won’t be a top-10 pick, Vander Esch has a good chance to be the best linebacker from this draft.

Strengths

Big, strong and fast kid who plays technically sound. Able to defend passes a big plus. Has a nose for the football, always looking to make the next play. Intellectual as a defensive player. Leader on his side of the ball. Won’t be bullied at the line of scrimmage. Active hands as a defender.

Weaknesses

Inexperience as a starter (similar to Evans). Can struggle to disengage from blocks. Can be too aggressive which leads to missed opportunities.

How he fits with the Steelers

Vander Esch, like Evans, could likely start for the Steelers from day one. Both are highly regarded as top linebacker prospects, yet he provides the size and strength that can be demanded of an NFL linebacker. Pittsburgh loves to drop their linebackers in coverage when disguising blitzes, and Vander Esch excels at doing just that. Vander Esch would look exceptionally good in black and gold, and would provide the smash-mouth brand of football that Pittsburgh has so desperately missed.

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