At Auburn football’s Pro Day, former Tigers linebacker Wesley Steiner delivered an impressive performance despite having transferred to Washington State after the 2023 season. Although no longer part of Auburn’s program, Steiner participated in the event as one of Hugh Freeze’s former players and stood out across several athletic drills.
According to AL.com’s Peter Rauterkus, Steiner arguably had the best showing of all participants. Rauterkus highlighted his dominance, noting that Steiner led in the vertical jump, broad jump, and 40-yard dash while also finishing third in bench press reps. His athleticism was evident from the start, making a strong impression on scouts and observers.
Steiner’s performance reflects the athletic potential he has always possessed. However, throughout his collegiate career, his primary struggle wasn’t physical ability but understanding and executing defensive schemes. Playing under multiple defensive coordinators at Auburn created challenges for him, which continued during his time at Washington State. These difficulties limited his playing time in Pullman, preventing him from building on the 46-tackle season he recorded at Auburn in 2022.
While Steiner’s production declined, his raw athletic talent remained undeniable. Former Washington State head coach Jake Dickert, now leading Wake Forest, praised Steiner’s physical abilities. Last July, Dickert described him as one of the most extraordinary athletes he had ever encountered. He highlighted Steiner’s ability to power clean 405 pounds and his combination of speed and agility, expressing excitement about his potential on the field.
Steiner’s performance at Auburn’s Pro Day could attract the attention of NFL scouts looking for untapped athletic talent. Despite his struggles with consistency and scheme comprehension, his physical tools are hard to ignore. The Pro Day showing provides him with a renewed opportunity to prove his value at the next level.
Now, the key is whether an NFL scout sees what Dickert and others have recognized—Steiner’s rare athleticism and potential. With his standout performance, Steiner has undoubtedly put himself back on the radar as a prospect to watch.
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