The 25 most likely Steelers defensive targets in 2022 draft

Steelers defensive prospect #13

A name that makes a lot of sense in the mid-rounds is Cincinnati linebacker, Darrian Beavers. He struggled early in his career as defenses didn’t know what to do with him, but he came on later as a linebacker with decent athleticism. He has some safety and defensive line experience as well, making him a versatile defender for any team that drafts him.

Where Beavers excels is using his size to shoot through gaps and make plays close to the line of scrimmage. As well, he is an above-average coverage option in zone coverage even though he struggles when tasked with covering someone man to man. Some will point out his slower than average forty time, but his overall agility and athleticism testing numbers are great.

Where the fit really makes sense is what Brian Flores likes in a linebacker. He specializes in using those oversized inside guys to make plays and shoot gaps. Beavers would be a great fit in this defense because of this and the fact that the linebacker room is lacking a player like that. Beavers would be a third or fourth-round developmental play that Flores has a proven track record with. Add in the Steelers heavy scouting of Cincinnati defenders and there is good reason to link these two.