2021 Draft Profile: Notre Dame’s Liam Eichenberg

[Steeler Nation]

Leading up to the 2021 NFL Draft starting on April 29th, we will be releasing several draft profiles of prospects who could potentially see themselves on the Pittsburgh Steelers. Next up…

Liam Eichenberg (Tackle) Notre Dame, RS Senior​

The Need:

Everyone is probably getting tired of hearing it, but it’s something that needs to be reiterated until we see some players brought in that can help solve the issues in the running game. There are glaring needs on the offensive line with numerous faces likely on the way out. Additionally, there is uncertainty with the players who are left on the roster at specific positions on the offensive line. Alejandro Villanueva is scheduled to become a free agent when the new league year begins on March 17th. Of course, the Steelers could bring back the left tackle, but they could opt to go in another direction in an attempt to get younger and spend cap space elsewhere. In regards to Villanueva, everything is just speculation. No one is absolutely sure of the future of the left tackle. As of right now, left tackle is a huge need for the Steelers to fill. If the team elects to address the position in the 2021 NFL Draft, a possible option is Notre Dame’s Liam Eichenberg.

Eichenberg measures in at 6’6”, 305 lbs. As far as where he could be drafted, right now there are mocks that have him going as early as the 1st round, but never later than the middle of the 2nd round. ESPN currently has Eichenberg listed as the 46th best prospect available in this year’s draft class.


Pros:

• (Plug and Play) Starter at Left Tackle
• Plays to His Strength to Avoid Exposing His Weaknesses
• Takes Calculated Steps When Engaging
• Exceptional Balance
• Fundamentally Sound
• Experience: 3-Year Starter for Notre Dame
• High Football IQ that makes up for the lack of athleticism
• Best Trait: His Effectiveness in the power run game

Cons:

• Lacks Athleticism
• Lacks Versatility
• Struggles with Top-Tier Speed Rushers Occasionally
• Struggled early on in his career with hand placement, but has improved every year
• Footwork is sound, but can be slow.
• Occasionally lets defenders get underneath him

Check out the video below to see how Eichenberg (74) performed in the ACC Championship game against Clemson this past season!


What do you think of Notre Dame’s Liam Eichenberg? Sound off in the comment section below, or on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!

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[slashsteel]

Yeah I like me some ND linemen. One thing I like about this prospect is he works on his weaknesses. There is about three to four Ts that really intrigue me. Some real good value which I am sure there will be a run but with the depth in this draft you could very well find an excellent T in 2 or 3 IMO

 

[BLITZ]

lacks athleticism
lacks versatility



ouch

 

[Steeltime]

The "lacks athleticism" comment is not really accurate. Watched film against Clemson and he does a good job at punching the initial target and getting to the second level. Decent slide step, good balance. He can be beaten by good pass rushers who swat down his hands and turn the corner, but that is more a technique than an "athletic" issue. He is a better run blocker right now than pass blocker, but has good footwork, stays balanced, and can get better at using his hands and winning that battle with the defense.

 

[TDX27]

If we get our RB in round 1 at 24, we will be trading up in the 2nd. Or if we go OT in the 1st, we will trade up in the 2nd to get our RB. I think it is a must to get a legit starting feature back and a starting O-lineman.

 

[slashsteel]

The "lacks athleticism" comment is not really accurate. Watched film against Clemson and he does a good job at punching the initial target and getting to the second level. Decent slide step, good balance. He can be beaten by good pass rushers who swat down his hands and turn the corner, but that is more a technique than an "athletic" issue. He is a better run blocker right now than pass blocker, but has good footwork, stays balanced, and can get better at using his hands and winning that battle with the defense.

Good point that brings up this ongoing thought I have had for awhile. If you aren't a film watch type draft fan, don't get too caught up on listed negatives. Go pick three games of the prospect and reflect upon which you have read. Does it match up? These draft sites, mags,etc. are often copying off one person, can't watch film well, or just putting something down to complete their bio which might have been a minor observation. Or they might have been spot on but don't just take one reads opinion. Things that don't lie.... Combine measurements, pro days although 40s may need to be adjusted, game tape. Even with game tape you have was the player nursing an injury, was he just going through a burn out stage ?

 

[Ike Kelly]

Good point that brings up this ongoing thought I have had for awhile. If you aren't a film watch type draft fan, don't get too caught up on listed negatives. Go pick three games of the prospect and reflect upon which you have read. Does it match up? These draft sites, mags,etc. are often copying off one person, can't watch film well, or just putting something down to complete their bio which might have been a minor observation. Or they might have been spot on but don't just take one reads opinion. Things that don't lie.... Combine measurements, pro days although 40s may need to be adjusted, game tape. Even with game tape you have was the player nursing an injury, was he just going through a burn out stage ?

Or be a genius like Coach and read Walter Football, along with watching YouTube clips and bingo you pretend you are more clever than anyone who does actual research.

 

[SteelerSask2]

Notre Dame fan here, but didn't watch his specific play much. As a generality they are well coached and good pros. 305 is a little light in the pants though for an NFL left tackle. If he isn't overly athletic, how will he react to another 15 plus pounds?

 

[slashsteel]

Notre Dame fan here, but didn't watch his specific play much. As a generality they are well coached and good pros. 305 is a little light in the pants though for an NFL left tackle. If he isn't overly athletic, how will he react to another 15 plus pounds?

Depends on your frame, I would say 10 15 pounds can possibly be picked up without losing a step on the field with his height.

 

[Steeltime]

Depends on your frame, I would say 10 15 pounds can possibly be picked up without losing a step on the field with his height.

Yeah, I agree. Looks like Eichenberg is a guy who can add 15 good pounds since he is pretty lean right now.