During an NFL off-season, the Pittsburgh Steelers and 31 other teams have plenty to assess and look at heading into the NFL Draft and training camp. Understanding strengths is important in order to build on them while identifying weaknesses in an attempt to get better in those areas is even more critical. One of the more underrated pieces, however, is certain players who flashed significant potential taking a huge leap in the following season. Pittsburgh has several of these cases, but one in particular could be a vital asset going forward while flying under the radar.
Steelers defensive lineman, DeMarvin Leal (#98) gets ready to participate in a 2022 regular game at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA. | Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (Twitter: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Which Defensive Linemen Free Agents Should The Steelers Target in The 2023 Off-Season?
There is a lot of depth needed on the defensive line. Cameron Heyward, Montravius Adams, Isaiahh Loudermilk and 2022 rookie, DeMarvin Leal are the only four currently set to return for the positional group in 2023. There are likely to be moves made in free agency as well as through the draft, but there is no doubt that a boost is necessary for this group heading into next season.
Leal was having a solid season through his first five games with nine tackles and three pass breakups. He was doing an awesome job getting his hands in the air and disrupting the line of scrimmage. Unfortunately, he was placed on Injured Reserve do to a knee injury and would miss several games before returning to action.
Steelers 2022 rookie, DeMarvin leal (#92) stares down the offense during training camp at St. Vincent College in Latrobe, PA. | Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (Twitter: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Leal finished the season with 14 total tackles and a tackle for loss. He started two games, but with Larry Ogunjobi set to test the free agency market, the former third round pick in Leal could have his name called to be the starter in 2023. The playing time in 2022 was scarce for the rookie, but he is definitely an intriguing player to keep an eye on.
It all comes down to how much the Steelers trust Leal. With a thin defensive front and a run heavy division, the defense needs to be more consistent in this area. The progress of Leal leads to potential rests every once in a while for some of the other linemen and increases the chances of the unit being successful.
The Steelers had a much better run defense in 2022 compared to 2021, but the group was a main reason the team took a loss late in games after opposing offenses wore the defense out on the ground. Leal won't be the only one who needs to step up, but has a tremendous opportunity to turn into a stud for Pittsburgh.
Steelers defensive coordinator, Teryl Austin looks on and points at one of the team’s practices. | Peter Diana/Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
The need for an internal solution on the defensive line is critical. The draft and free agency is unlikely to produce a top five run defense, but after being in the system for a season, Leal exploding in September could be a huge unexpected and impactful occurrence for the Steelers.
We could point the several young players who could make a significant impact in 2023. Kenny Pickett, George Pickens, Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren are all worthy of a mention. But the key is, the defense isn't young. A young, rising star needs to emerge and Leal showed flashes of having that potential early on.
Who do you think needs to take a big leap in 2023? Let us know in the comments below!
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