Steelers post-NFL Combine mock draft: Malik Willis is still the ultimate goal

Steelers mock draft round 3: LB Leo Chenal

Here’s a linebacker who will be firmly on Steelers draft radar on day two. After an impressive NFL Combine that included an official 4.53 40-yard dash and 40.5” vertical at 6’3” and 250 pounds, it’s possible that Leo Chenal could shoot himself up into the second round. However, Chenal isn’t going to be for everyone.

Chenal does his best work near the line of scrimmage and coming downhill. In fact, he’s probably the closest player this draft has to offer to former Steelers linebacker, Vince Williams. Chenal is bigger and more explosive than Williams, but some teams will view him as an early-down linebacker who could be a potential liability on third down or obvious passing situations.

Because there are a plethora of fast linebackers this year who can cover better than Chenal, it’s possible he could slide to the third round. This would be remarkable value for a team in need of a run-stuffing linebacker, and Pittsburgh would not be able to pass him up.

Chenal doesn’t play as fast as his timed speed, but it doesn’t really matter. He’s great going downhill and sifting through traffic. With Joe Schobert likely a cap casualty, Chenal could see himself starting for the Steelers alongside Devin Bush early in his rookie season.