The Pittsburgh Steelers are weighing their options for the upcoming NFL draft, with a keen eye on strengthening their defense. The team hasn't selected a defensive player in the first round since 2020, but a pressing need for a game-changing defensive presence might change that trajectory this year. The 2024 season saw the Steelers maintain a top-10 ranking in run defense, yet the unit struggled significantly against elite rushing teams, particularly towards the end of the season. This strategic pivot comes amidst challenges faced during their wild-card loss, where they allowed a staggering 299 rushing yards.
Benton, a promising young prospect, has been a linchpin for the Steelers, starting in 14 games during the 2024 season. However, the supporting cast around him is showing signs of age. Notably, Larry Ogunjobi, though effective when healthy, is 31 and could be released to save $7 million in cap space. Meanwhile, Cameron Heyward, who will turn 36 in May, delivered one of his finest performances in 2024 with impressive stats including eight sacks and 11 passes defended. The team finds itself at a crossroads, needing to inject youthful energy into its defensive line while balancing financial considerations.
General Manager Omar Khan has proven adept at identifying and acquiring defensive talent in recent drafts. His selections in 2023, particularly linebacker Payton Wilson, have made significant contributions to the team. With this track record, Khan is expected to explore various promising prospects for the Steelers' first-round pick. Leading candidates include Oregon's defensive tackle Derrick Harmon, who led all FBS tackles with 34 pressures in 2024, and Ole Miss's defensive tackle Walter Nolen, a consensus All-American with 14 tackles for loss.
Coach Mike Tomlin acknowledged the necessity for improvement, especially against formidable rushing teams like the Ravens. He emphasized that the team must enhance both schematics and individual performances.
"The Ravens present a unique challenge in terms of their run game," – Mike Tomlin
The Steelers' defensive line has seen consistent investment over the past seven drafts. However, as Tomlin noted, certain aspects of their game require further refinement.
"You got to play 11-on-11 football, and at times we could have performed better schematically and at times we could have performed better as individuals, particularly the last two games that we played them," – Mike Tomlin
Art Rooney II, owner of the Steelers, echoed these sentiments, underscoring the importance of solid run defense.
"On the defensive side, it starts with stopping the run, and we didn't do that down the stretch," – Art Rooney II
Derrick Harmon from Oregon stands out as a top contender for the Steelers' first-round selection. With 10.5 tackles for loss, five sacks, and two forced fumbles in 2024, Harmon’s ability to pressure quarterbacks makes him an alluring option. Similarly, Walter Nolen from Ole Miss boasts impressive numbers that include being named an All-American.
Aside from interior linemen, the Steelers are also contemplating bolstering their secondary. Kentucky cornerback Maxwell Hairston and Michigan cornerback Will Johnson are potential targets to complement Joey Porter Jr., who was acquired as a second-round pick.
As Tomlin put it:
"We didn't do a good enough job of controlling that component of the game and that leads to possession-down play and situational play, and we didn't have them in enough one-dimensional circumstances to create the type of negativity that's been a calling card of us winning those games with consistency," – Mike Tomlin
With these factors in mind, Pittsburgh's leadership is diligently evaluating their personnel and potential draft picks.
"Those are questions that are going to be answered over the course of a longer period of time as we study not only our personnel but our schematics and the combinations of both," – Tomlin
The Steelers' decision-making process will undoubtedly involve comprehensive analysis to ensure they address their defensive needs effectively.
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