Alameda Ta’amu at #4

By steelerguy26
- Tweet
- Pin It
Updated: April 28, 2012

Steelers Trade up in the 4th Round for DT Alameda Ta’amu

The Steelers moved up 10 spots to grab Ta’Amu, exchanging fourth-round picks with the Washington Redskins while also giving the Redskins a sixth-round choice. With an increasing number of teams moving to a 3-4 defense increases the need for space-eating defensive linemen. At 6’3″, 348 pounds, Washington’s Alameda Ta’amu possesses the size needed to fill the all-important nose tackle position.

During the combine, Ta’amu’s showed good strength by posting 35 reps on the bench press. This is the type of upper-body strength that is needed to occupy multiple blockers. Playing nose tackle in a 3-4 alignment means Ta’amu must be able to hold at the point of attack.

Todd McShay and Scouts Inc. believe Ta’amu does a good job holding up against the run.

A massive, wide-body NT with classic two-gapping traits. Needs work on leverage and playing with consistent gap-discipline. Stronger upper body than lower body. Arms are shorter than ideal. However, when playing with leverage can be a hand full for offensive linemen. Creates a strong initial surge in one-on-one battles.

Ta’amu’s lack of pass-rush skills means he’ll see most of his playing time on first and second downs. However, his run-stuffing ability will help him see the field early in his career. His size and potential is something defensive coordinators and GMs covet.

Two other factors will contribute to Ta’amu seeing the field early in his rookie season. Defensive lines are constantly rotating, which allows even the second- and third-stringers to see the field. Lastly, Ta’amu’s work ethic is sure to earn him snaps.

Pick Analysis:

Love the draft the Steelers are having. They bolstered their offensive line in the first couple rounds and now have their replacement for Casey Hampton. A massive player who will be a run stuffer on 1st and 2nd down, this is a great value pick for Pittsburgh.

Bio
Twitter
Facebook
Google+
Latest Posts

steelerguy26

Editor & Chief at Kree Kreative

The Editor & Chief, the brains so to say, behind Pittsburgh Blitz. Jim is a rabid sports fan who just loves his Stillers, Pens and Buccos. Feel free to contact us at info[@]pittsburgh-blitz.com if you have any questions or comments or would like to join our staff and write for Pittsburgh Blitz.