Report Says Fourth Round Pick DE McBean Signs

The Pittsburgh Press-Gazette has learned that the Steelers have signed rookie defensive end Ryan McBean to a three-year contract. McBean, from Oklahoma State, was selected by the Steelers in the fourth round of the 2007 draft. He is 6-5, 285 pounds. He is the third player signed from the 2007 draft.

Here is the scouting report on McBean:

The good: McBean is a big, athletic lineman who had a fine two-year career in the Big 12 after starting his career at Hinds Junior College. He is a tall, angular lineman with the athleticism to start at several spots on a pro front line and either defensive scheme. He began to flash big-play ability as a junior. He filled a tackle spot where he was allowed to use his quickness to penetrate and make plays. He has some lateral quickness and enough speed to close on the passer. He is a sound tackler who wraps up very decisively. He is a tough, physical competitor that plays with a sense of urgency.

The bad: He needs some technique refinement because he has a tendency to play too upright at times. He needs to play with better pad level. He needs definite strength work to hold the point of attack against the inside run game. He has good weight room strength in the upper body, but he must utilize it better.

Outlook: He has the upside to warrant a middle-round grade, and he could be a first-day selection off his play last season. He is a marginal top-100 prospect with a big upside. He probably fits the end spot in a 3-4 best, and that may be the only place he can develop into a pro starter.