NDN: Chicago Bears QB Justin Fields looks like the real deal
By John Blair
DeMarvin Leal Scouting Report
The top defensive tackle in the 2022 NFL Draft and one of the best defensive players in the entire draft is Texas A&M’s, Demarvin Leal. Leal came to the Aggies after a stellar career at Judson High School in San Antonio, Texas. As a senior, he recorded 83 tackles, 16 tackles for loss, 13 quarterback hits, six sacks, six pass breakups, four forced fumbles. His strong play on the field and high upside allowed Leal to be named a five-star ranking by 247 Sports.
When it came to choosing where to play his college ball Leal decided to stay close to home and attend Texas A&M. As a freshman he started seven games and was named the team’s Defensive Newcomer of the Year. This past season he was named the team’s Defensive MVP after leading the team in hurries and finishing the year with 37 tackles, 2.5 sacks, and one interception.
When projecting Leal to the next level the first thing that stands out is his outstanding athletic ability. He is often asked to play as a standup edge in Texas A&M’s defense and looks natural at this spot despite being 290 pounds. His athletic ability shows up as a pass rusher as well. He displays outstanding quickness and can beat offensive tackles with speed off the edge.
Another positive with Leal is how disciplined he plays. He does a great job of reading his blocks and staying at home vs the run instead of flying up the field and finding himself out of position. He shows a high football IQ as a pass rusher as well and can beat teams with a variety of pass-rushing moves including a spin move and bull rush.
The biggest concern with Leal is his lack of power. While he can win at times with his bull rush he may have trouble with this move against stronger offensive guards in the NFL compared to the offensive tackles he beats with this move in college.
In terms of where Leal will fit best in the NFL, he has the ability to be a disruptive 3-technique pass-rushing defensive tackle. He would be an ideal fit in this scheme as he has the quickness to shoot his gap and makes plays consistently in the backfield. If he is put in this scheme at the next level it would not be a shock to see Leal become an All-Pro defensive tackle.