Cowboys mock draft: Dallas beefs up defense with all 9 picks and trades
Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. DL. 56. 123. Texas A&M Aggies. DeMarvinLeal. player
Round 2, Pick 56: DL DeMarvin Leal
I will say I was stunned to see DeMarvin Leal still on the board at 56. This was the easiest pick of the whole draft for me. Leal is an insane mixture of strength, power, and speed that you don’t normally see out of interior defensive linemen. Leal has the versatility to play all along the defensive line, seeing as he spent at least 200 snaps both on the inside and outside.
The Texas native was one of the better pass rushers in college football last season, finishing with 8.5 sacks, 12.5 tackles for loss, 23 hurries, and five QB hits. Leal’s hand power and flexibility helped him get to the passer a lot this past season.
The Aggie also showed a ton in the run game. He has all the tools to be an excellent run defender. He finished last season with 58 tackles, 32 stops, and one forced fumble. His block shedding ability and quick first step against interior defenders allow him to get to the ball carrier in a hurry.
When this defensive lineman hits the NFL, he is expected to be primarily used in a role similar to Aaron Donald. Leal will most likely be placed on the inside where he can use his explosiveness to power past guards and provide pass rushing from the inside as a 3-tech. Adding the Texas A&M product could help the defensive line and provide a pass-rushing presence on the inside it hasn’t had in years.
Other notable prospects available: CB Derion Kendrick, EDGE Josh Paschal, LB Brian Asamoah