Steve Avila 2023 NFL Draft

This 2023 NFL Draft scouting report about Steve Avila is from Justin Caballero of Digging in the Trenches. Make sure to check the tags and links below for more draft profiles. Make sure to check back with Dolphins Thirsty often for all things Fins.

2023 NFL Draft: Steve Avila, OL, TCU

Rating scale: 1 Poor 10 Elite COD: Change of direction

Caballero says that Steve Avila is a traditional big-knuckle dragger type of offensive lineman. This OL prospect can play center or guard in the NFL so that versatility should help him find a starting spot quickly. Quick light feet with decent flexibility.

Avila has good speed and quickness for a man of his size with good change of direction movements. Scrapes down the line of scrimmage nicely with surprisingly quick lateral movements. Good contact balance as he keeps in sync with his upper and lower half upon initial contact. Defenders find it difficult to get through him or around him at the point of attack.

Can fight in phone size spots in a crowded area on the field to get the upper hand on the person across from him. But, can also move in open space to get to a defender. “Steve can pancake you in the running game or drop anchor on you in pass protection,” said Caballero. Strong violent hands attached to thick arms help Avila control the opposition.

Proper technique allows Avila to use those strong hands with good placement to take control of the business in the trenches. Takes the fight to the defenders instead of waiting to absorb the first contact. “Steve is simply a big powerful lineman that means business on game day,” said Caballero.

In addition to all his above-mentioned physical traits, Avila has a high football IQ. He knows what needs to be done and gets it done quickly. At times, Steve Avila might get beat as he allows his knees to get too straight instead of bending them during contact.

The Prospect Sheet

Steve Avila attended South Grand Prairie in Grand Prairie, Texas. TCU, Kansas State, Utah, and other schools offered him the chance to play at their school. Avila chose TCU. (Source: 247sports.com)

NFL Scouting Combine participant.

Draft Projection: 2nd to 4th round

Overall, Caballero feels that Avila has the skills and football IQ to be a starter with the potential to play at an elite level in the NFL.