The 2022 NFL Draft cycle is in full swing over here at NFL Mocks, as summer scouting is rolling. Opinions are starting to take shape, and big boards are starting to materialize. Many analysts already are seeing that defense is set to dominate the top of the draft next year. For most, it starts with Oregon’s Kayvon Thibodeaux, and includes Notre Dame safety Kyle Hamilton and LSU corner Derek Stingley. The next defender after them might just be Texas A&M Aggies defensive lineman DeMarvin Leal.
Aggies DL DeMarvin Leal could push to be a top 10 selection in the 2022 NFL Draft.
In high school, Leal was an Army All-American, and made second team All-State as a junior. His senior season consisted of 83 tackles, 16 tackles for loss, 13 quarterback hits, six sacks, six pass breakups, four forced fumbles, and a blocked punt.
As a freshman, Leal played in all 13 games and started in seven of them. His five quarterback hurries were second on the team, and he finished the season with 5.5 TFLs and two sacks. Leal did earn Top Defensive Newcomer from the Aggies that season.
In 2020, Leal started all 10 games and saw a jump in numbers. He led the defense in hurries with eight, and tallied seven TFLs and 2.5 sacks. He came down with an interception and batted down three passes.
There’s plenty of expectations for Leal heading into the 2020 season on what should be another good Aggies team. Can his production take the next step? We will see, but first, let’s look at the traits and his outlook for the 2022 NFL Draft in this scouting report.
Size, Athleticism, and Versatility
The first thing that jumps out with a player like Leal is the size. He’s reportedly at 290 pounds right now, and carries the weight extremely well. His movement skills, particularly his ability to change direction, are excellent for a player of that size.
That size plays into his versatility. Leal has lined up all over the Aggies line, from outside at the 5-technique, to a traditional defensive tackle look at the 3-technique, and got some reps at nose tackle as well. His quickness and power blend play into an ability to create pressure from all of these alignments.
Leal brings a good array of pass rush moves to the table as well. He has a great inside move thanks to his agility and quickness, and he occasionally brings out an efficient spin move. Perhaps the most surprising to see is watching Leal able to dip around the outside track. His flexibility is insane for his size.
Leal can trim the edge with his power and hand usage, and has flashed the ability to collapse the pocket. He has a push/pull move to shed blocks quickly, and plays with great effort and a strong pursuit from the back side.
Lastly, his mental acuity is very strong when it comes to the run game and reading the quarterback’s eyes. He does a great job getting into position to funnel runners to second level defenders and does a fantastic job getting his hands up to deflect passes that travel his way.
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.