There is a real possibility that the Steelers could double up on inside linebackers especially if they hang on to most of those ten draft picks. One of those backers could be Tre Lamar of Clemson.
Background
Tre Lamar III, 6’3″ 253 lbs
Linebacker, Clemson
2018 Stats: 85 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, 3 sacks, 1 pass defended, 1 interception
Butkus Award Finalist… Uncle Antony Butts played in the NFL… Majored in Pre-Business
What’s to Like
He has a great motor/Always on the move and looking for action… Vocal leader who runs the defense the way you expect a middle LB to do so… Strong upper body that allows him to punish ball carries and take the physicality the game brings… Durable! Played over 500 snaps and started 14 of 15 games for the Tigers… Fills the gap with physicality… Will be very coachable.
What’s Concerning
Does not get off blocks well… Does not take good angles of pursuit… Doesn’t anticipate the ball carrier’s moves well/Slow to react to change of direction… Man coverage skills are limited… Will miss tackles at times due to lack of fundamental tackling breakdown… Doesn’t use his hands well enough to keep blockers off of him… Only a two-down backer at the NFL level
The Verdict
When I look at Lamar I see a linebacker who is probably 30 years past the time when he would have been in demand. He’s solid between the tackles and has the ability to pursue but his angles need work and he does not stack and shed blockers well enough to be a regular NFL starter in my opinion. He works his tail off and that’s evident on every play because he never gives up. That said, he would be “ok” in zone coverage and would struggle in man against running backs and athletic tight ends. Consider also that Lamar benefited from an excellent defensive line in front of him too. He does not possess the athletic ability necessary to overcome a poor line at the pro level. Lamar will likely make an NFL roster due to his hustle and past successes as a Special Teams player at Clemson.
Final Grade: 7th Rounder/Undrafted Free Agent
Games Watched: vs Pitt (ACC Title Game 2018), vs Boston College (2018), Notre Dame (National Semi-Final 2018), Duke (2018)
Credits: youtube.com, sports-reference.com, clemsontigers.com
