Reston Lehman

Physical Profile

Lehman stands at an impressive 6-foot-4 and 230 pounds, a prototypical build for a modern EDGE or versatile linebacker. [2, 4] This size and length provide a significant advantage in setting the edge against the run and affecting passing lanes. He demonstrates good functional strength and the frame to add more mass without sacrificing his athletic ability, which is a key component of his game. [2, 4]

Play Style

On film, Lehman is a disruptive force who plays with a sense of urgency. He uses his length and strength to disengage from blockers in the run game and shows good burst to close on the quarterback. His background as a multi-sport athlete is evident in his fluid movements and coordination. [2] He is a classic 'effort' player whose motor runs hot, often making plays through sheer will and pursuit.

Strengths

• Versatility and Athleticism: Played multiple positions in high school, including outside linebacker, defensive end, and even wide receiver, showcasing a high level of athleticism for his size. [2, 5] He has experience playing from both a two-point and three-point stance and has even been asked to drop into pass coverage, intercepting three passes as a junior. [2, 16]
• Playmaking and Disruptiveness: Consistently demonstrated a nose for the football, recording 8.5 sacks, five forced fumbles, and two interceptions as a senior. [13] He made the game-clinching defensive play in the WPIAL Class 5A championship, showcasing his ability to perform in critical moments. [2]
• High Motor and Physicality: Praised for his relentless effort and gritty, aggressive style of play. [17] He plays with a tenacity that allows him to shed blocks and pursue plays from the backside, fitting the mold of the tough, hard-nosed defenses favored by the program he's committed to.

Areas to Improve

• Technique Refinement: As an early enrollee, Lehman himself noted the need to work on his stance, particularly playing with a hand in the dirt in a three-point stance more consistently, which he did not do frequently in high school. [16]
• Pass Rush Moveset: While his athleticism and motor lead to production, he will need to continue developing a diverse arsenal of pass-rush moves to consistently defeat more polished offensive tackles at the collegiate level.

College Projection

Lehman is projected as a starting EDGE defender or outside linebacker in a 3-4 or 4-3 scheme. Given that he enrolled early at Pittsburgh, he has a strong chance to contribute on special teams as a true freshman. [2] With a year of development in a college strength and conditioning program and focused positional coaching, he has the potential to become a significant contributor on defense by his second year and a multi-year starter.

NFL Outlook

As a four-star prospect with an excellent frame, proven high school production, and notable athleticism, Reston Lehman possesses the foundational traits that attract NFL attention. [2, 12, 13] His developmental trajectory at Pittsburgh will be crucial, but his combination of size, versatility, and motor gives him a legitimate path to becoming a mid-to-late round NFL Draft pick with further development.

Best Fit

Lehman is an excellent fit for a program like Pittsburgh that prides itself on aggressive, physical, and versatile defensive fronts. [16, 17] A scheme that allows him to play on the edge, utilize his athleticism in space, and rush the passer from various alignments would maximize his skill set. His work ethic and background make him a strong fit for a demanding defensive culture.