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Steelers met with dynamic USC LB/S Su'a Cravens at the NFL Combine

The NFL Scouting Combine is over, but who teams met with is still being reported. The Steelers spent time with dynamic and versatile Su'a Cravens from USC.

By Jeff.Hartman
Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

With the NFL Scouting Combine completed, the Pittsburgh Steelers met with a number of athletes at the event, but not all were made public. However, reports are slowly being released who the team sat down and had an one-on-one conversation at the Combine.

As for USC prospect Su'a Cravens, his agent tweeted out the teams he has visited with, and the Steelers were one of 22 teams who made it a point to have a conversation with the dynamic, and versatile, defender.

There are mixed reviews surrounding Cravens and his ability to make an impact at the NFL level. The main issue is his position. Is he a linebacker, or is he a safety?

As for me, why can't he be both?

In today's NFL, defensive positions have become so fluid it is difficult to label someone a defensive end, or an outside linebacker. The Steelers rarely use their base 3-4 scheme anymore, relying more on sub packages to counteract the nuances of their opposition.

In 2015, you saw Ryan Shazier lined up as an inside linebacker, out in the flat covering a tight end, running back or slot receiver, as well as an outside linebacker in some instances. The more you can do, the better shot you have of seeing the field, and Cravens can do a lot.

Cravens played as a strong safety his first year with USC, and was able to register four interceptions and forced and recovered a fumble from that position. His next year he played more of an inside linebacker role, and was productive there as well. He registered 17 tackles for a loss and still had 3 interceptions to add to his resume.

Even with all his strengths, Cravens has been criticized for his over pursuit and lack of discipline when tackling, but those criticisms are nit-picking when it comes to the versatility and dynamic Cravens brings to a lineup.

Projected as a second round pick, the Steelers would have to do some serious thinking if he were on the board when they are set to make their selection. It is doubtful the team would make him their first round selection, but if he were still available in the second round, he could be a player they target.

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