2014 NFL Draft: Grading each and every Pittsburgh Steelers draft picks
By Matt Shetler
Round 6, Pick 192: Jordan Zumwalt, LB, UCLA
Nov 2, 2013; Pasadena, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins linebacker Jordan Zumwalt (35) during the game against the Colorado Buffaloes at Rose Bowl. UCLA defeated Colorado 45-23. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
On paper Zumwalt is a Steeler.
Outside linebacker depth is a need for the Steelers and Zumwalt at 6’4”, 235, could potentially add to that.
He is an explosive hitter that throws his body around recklessly and times up the blitz well. He is a guy who is always around the ball. Zumwalt is also a very smart player with a high football IQ who had a lot of responsibilities while in college.
Zumwalt has the intensity and versatility that screams Steelers. He has experience playing inside and outside and would provide depth at several linebacker spots for Pittsburgh. He plays fast, active and aggressive and the Steelers have put a premium on speed so far in this draft.
However while you have to like Zumwalt’s speed and intensity, there is just as much not to like.
While he plays fast, he doesn’t play very strong as he struggles to disengage from blocks when he is locked up and isn’t very reliable in coverage.
He has average athleticism and it takes him a few moments to change directions. Zumwalt needs to bulk up in a major way. His fundamentals aren’t great and there are durability questions.
At the end of the day I see him making a potential impact on special teams with a chance to work into consideration for a potential starting spot well down the road if he improves in major areas.
Grade: C