Steelers Film Room: Can Steve McLendon Be a Three-Down Nose Tackle?
By Nick Kelly
Final Thoughts:
December 23, 2012; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Steve McLendon (90) reacts to a defensive play against the Cincinnati Bengals during the fourth quarter at Heinz Field. The Cincinnati Bengals won 13-10. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Since coming to the Steelers as originally a member of their practice squad in 2009, McLendon has made huge steps. This next season, McLendon looks to fill one of the biggest voids in the Steelers defense in over a decade.
Steve McLendon has been waiting for this moment as he was quoted saying:
"“You don’t come out here just to be a secondary guy,” McLendon said. “You come out here to be the greatest. That’s how I look at it.”"
After watching McLendon’s film, I can attest to the fact that he is ready for his chance to be a dominant nose tackle for the Steelers. He possesses all the traits needed to fill this void, and I believe that he can not only fill it, he could make an even greater impact.
If he is going to be a dominant player in this league for years to come, McLendon knows mentally what it will take, as he was quoted saying:
"“I changed my whole way of thinking this year,” McLendon said. “I’m no longer saying, ‘Good.’ I’m saying, ‘Great,’ because if you speak greatness, then greatness is going to come.”"
After an 8-8 season, and loosing Casey Hampton, the Steelers need greatness to come from Steve McLendon. I have no doubt in my mind that greatness is exactly what Steve McLendon will bring.
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