NFL Draft 2012: Alameda Ta'amu Picked By The Pittsburgh Steelers

With the 109th overall pick, in the 4th round in the 2012 NFL Draft, the Pittsburgh Steelers have selected Alameda Ta'amu, a nose tackle out of Washington. The 340-pounder will become an eventual anchor in the Steelers' 3-4 defensive scheme. Ta'amu showed great explosiveness during his time with the Huskies, though he never quite had the production Dawg fans hoped for.

Sports Illustrated's prospect scouting database provides a succinct analysis on Ta'amu, as a prospect:

Positives: Big, powerful interior defender who controls the line of scrimmage. Gets off the ball with a terrific first step, shows strength in his lower body and easily holds the point of attack. Breaks down well, plays with good knee bend and bulrushes blockers off the line. Explodes through the open gaps of the offensive line. Relatively agile for a big man, flashing the ability to change direction and get down the line to make plays. Keeps his feet moving on contact. Gets a lot of force going up the field.

Negatives: Gets lazy with his hands and struggles sliding off blocks. Marginal skill as a pass rusher. Does not always play up to his level of potential.

For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, visit our NFL Draft StoryStream throughout the weekend. For a complete list of 2012 NFL Draft results as they happen, visit SBNation.com. For even more comprehensive coverage of the NFL Draft, visit Mocking The Draft.