2022 NFL Draft: Texas A&M Aggies DL DeMarvin Leal a top 10 lock?

Production and Pass Rush Plan

No prospect is without flaws or things they can improve upon. For Leal, it starts with his pass rush plan. Once he gets to contact, Leal needs to have a better plan for rush counters after his first move stalls. Setting up moves before contact and adapting will be important for him.

Production is something else to watch for Leal. If this is the year he makes a major jump, that will shorten the list of concerns. The combination of 17 sacks/TFLs in 22 isn’t bad, but it could be better.

If Leal does move inside, he should add a little weight to his frame. For teams that believe he’s an interior defensive line, it will be important for him to display more power at the point of attack and as a rusher.

2022 NFL Draft Outlook

DeMarvin Leal has a ton of potential and a ton of great traits. His movement skills and rush toolbox are exciting for a player of his size, and his vision plays into his ability to make plays in the backfield and deflect passes. His versatility just adds to his draft stock. There’s a reason he’s gotten preseason hype, and after a deeper dive, it’s warranted.

So, is Leal a top 10 lock for the 2022 NFL Draft? No one is ever a lock, but Leal has the traits to be selected in the top 10. His scheme versatility and projection will excite plenty of teams, and it’s likely Leal starts out quite high when this writer’s big board comes out next month. He will be a fun watch this season in the SEC.