Former Texas A&M defensive end DeMarvin Leal shifted to outside linebacker by Steelers

“He’s always been an athletic guy. He’s more attentive in the meetings… You can see the productivity on the field is starting to show up.”

During Mike Elko‘s first stint in College Station as the Texas A&M defensive coordinator, 10 of his players were drafted to the NFL.

One of those standout stars was defensive end DeMarvin Leal, who was selected in the third round of the 2022 draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers. Ahead of this upcoming season, Leal has been shifted to outside linebacker.

“He’s always been an athletic guy. He’s more attentive in the meetings,” Steelers defensive line coach Karl Dunbar told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. “You see him out here. He’s learned both of them — defensive end position and outside linebacker positions. You can see the productivity on the field is starting to show up.”

Leal has appeared in 23 games with six starts over two years. The San Antonio native has recorded 29 tackles, 4 pass breakups and 1 sack.

“It’s now for me,” Leal said. “I wouldn’t say now or never for the season, but it’s now for me.”

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