The Steelers have left just about no place on the roster untouched this offseason, and the defensive sort out group is not any exception. Having skilled yet one more one-and-done postseason exit, they’re making an attempt virtually something to realize extra favorable outcomes. With daring swings by way of commerce, shrewd free-agent signings, and a transparent draft precedence, the 2025 Steelers are taking form.
With coaching camp quick approaching, it’s time to evaluate the Steelers’ roster to see the place we’re and the way we obtained right here within the first place. This has been an offseason arguably not like another for the group, that includes main turnover. They’ve gone by way of a lot change that it feels essential to take inventory earlier than we transfer on.
Place: Defensive Deal with
Whole Positional Determine: 3
Additions: 1
Deletions: 1
Gamers Retained:
Keeanu Benton: Keeanu Benton is arguably one of many largest storylines this offseason that’s out of the headlines. The Steelers want their younger defensive sort out to take his sport to the subsequent degree. They see him as a possible constructing block of the longer term, however thus far, he has supplied primarily simply flashes.
Domenique Davis: Davis has spent most of his NFL profession with the Bengals, so he is aware of the AFC North. He spent a month on the Steelers’ observe squad final 12 months earlier than they waived the defensive sort out. After the season, nevertheless, after returning to Cincinnati, they signed him to a Reserve/Future contract. To date, he has solely 38 profession snaps, they usually had been again in 2022.
Gamers Added:
Yahya Black: The Steelers try to name Black a defensive finish, however they will’t idiot me: he’s a sort out. The truth is, he could be the Steelers’ backup nostril sort out this 12 months, behind Benton. A fifth-round decide, he’s an intriguing expertise, however nonetheless has a lot to show.
Gamers Misplaced:
Montravius Adams: The Steelers launched their former defensive sort out simply after the 2025 NFL Draft. For those who’re questioning if Yahya Black is a sort out or not, that ought to reply your query. After all, they might at all times circle again and re-sign him afterward. He isn’t presently with a staff, so in the event that they want depth, an inexpensive reunion would make sense.
Notes and Camp Outlook:
The Steelers have some defensive linemen who’re position-flexible and may play sort out. Daniel Ekuale and Jacob Slade, for instance, are amongst them, however these are the three that greatest match. I feel it was most prudent to go away the core of the dialogue to these primarily suited to the position.
The Steelers’ largest storyline at defensive sort out is the one on the high. They want Keeanu Benton to indicate up in an enormous means and attain his full potential. Cameron Heyward’s clock is ticking. Whereas they drafted Derrick Harmon, they want not less than two stud defensive linemen.
Past Benton, the Steelers have to seek out out if Yahya Black is able to be the reserve defensive sort out. Granted, they might solely play nostril sort out for 250-300 snaps this 12 months. However you don’t wish to lack a backup in case you want one. I might see them signing one other large physique sooner or later throughout coaching camp, simply to flesh out their choices, a possible observe squad candidate.
