Steelers Draft Prospects Hope To Continue Stanford-To-Pittsburgh Pipeline
PITTSBURGH (93-7 The Fan) - In last year's draft, the Pittsburgh Steelers used their first pick on David DeCastro from Stanford. If the Steelers want to keep the Cardinal pipeline going in 2013, they may call on LB Chase Thomas or RB Stepfan Taylor.
They both joined Troy Clardy Sunday on Sportsradio 93.7 The Fan.
Stepfan Taylor was one of college football's most productive running backs in 2012, and he feels ready to take on the NFL.
"I just look at myself as a well-rounded back," Taylor said. "I can go out there and pass protect, run the ball north and south between the tackles, and catch the ball out of the backfield. I play the game to win. I'm a really competitive person. I go out there and do what I need to do," Taylor said.
Just like DeCastro last season, Taylor has been getting ready for the draft while completing his degree at the same time.
"It's difficult, but the teams understand that now," Taylor said. "You gotta take care of your business. I came to Stanford to graduate and get my degree, so I'm going to get it. At the same time you have to be responsible. But that's what I've been doing here for four years."
Taylor also reveals how Stanford built itself into a top college football program, which NFL running backs he compares himself to, and introduces his alter ego, Kulabafi.
Stanford RB Stepfan Taylor
Chase Thomas helped the Cardinal defense lead the nation in sacks last season, and the high-motor linebacker tells what motivates him on the field.
"Making plays. Having an impact on the game. Having the ability to impose your will on another opponent," Thomas said. "That's a great feeling. I do love the game. Always have, always will. And it's a blessing that I have an opportunity to play it professionally."
If Thomas is selected by the Steelers, he'll be able to recognize a familiar face in the locker room.
"I already have one of my best buddies up there in Pittsburgh, [Steelers guard] David DeCastro. He tells me how much he loves the program. Pittsburgh's always had a good defense, so it would be awesome to be a part of that defense and compete for a Super Bowl next year," Thomas said.
Thomas also tells the secrets of defending the read-option offense that is starting to appear in the NFL, how special it was to end his college career with a Rose Bowl win, and what he is working on the most as the draft approaches.
