2021 NFL Draft: 49ers make aggressive move for QB in 3-round mock draft
2021 NFL Draft: Round 1, 24th overall
OT. Alabama. Alex Leatherwood. 24. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. player. 55
Alex Leatherwood had an extremely successful college career, shining at both right guard and left tackle for the dominant Alabama squad. Leatherwood is an incredibly powerful offensive lineman who fires off of the ball in an instant and does a great job of moving defenders off of their spot. He is an extremely aggressive offensive lineman who is always at his best when is allowed to attack and play forward.
The Pittsburgh Steelers have a major need at the left tackle position and could easily look to address the spot early in the 2021 NFL Draft. Leatherwood may be better suited to play inside at the next level, as his lack of natural athleticism could give him issues against high-level NFL speed edge rushers.
That being said, his pass protection ability improved during his final season at Alabama and the Steelers would be wise to select Leatherwood and give him an opportunity to take over as their franchise left tackle. If he struggles on the outside, the Steelers could move Leatherwood inside to guard and let him dominate at a position where he would likely shine.
If Leatherwood has to move inside, the Steelers would obviously still have a major need at the left tackle position. That being said, Leatherwood’s power and physicality would fit well in Pittsburgh and he certainly has a chance to shine and secure the Steelers’ left tackle situation.