By: Logan Leslie
SteelerNation.com
The Steelers defense needs to bring back the Steel Curtain in the secondary. Who better to add than a well regarded physical corner like DeAndre Baker? Mel Kiper has Baker going to the Steelers in a recent Mock Draft.
Baker plays physical at the line of scrimmage with experience playing in press, press-bail, off-man or zone. Mentally sharp and constantly alert in his area. Press coverage is a strength, typically in control at the line of scrimmage and rides receivers off the snap with good technique. Physical down the field to avoid getting stacked. Does his job in the run game, turns things back inside as a perimeter defender with experience playing both outside corner spots and the nickel.
A scout's take on Baker could not be more glowing:
"Deandre Baker improved every year in college, culminating with a dominant senior season. His blend of ball skills, press technique, route anticipation skills and awareness combined with modest fluidity and long speed make him best served to function as a press/zone corner. Baker is an extreme competitor which shows up in how he tackles, battles at the catch point and plays off contact. Given his limitations in off-man coverage, Baker is a scheme-specific prospect but represents top-end ability for a team in search of what he does well. Baker should be an impact starter in press/zone."
If you're a Steelers fan, this player should be towards the top of everyone's wish lists. He is the complete package and could undoubtedly help bring the Steelers back to the promise land. The Steelers would have immense depth at cornerback if they were to add Baker. Steven Nelson is the most recent addition to the secondary to play opposite Joe Haden. Haden has 1 year left on his deal, should the Steelers draft Baker they would have an immediate replacement come the start of the 2020 season.
Let us know what you think about Baker and the upcoming draft in the SteelerNation forum!
Watch his Georgia highlights here:
