Steelers' Larry Ogunjobi Describes The Tremendous Difference Between His Training This Offseason Versus 2022

Pittsburgh Steelers' defensive lineman, Larry Ogunjobi had an extremely interesting 2022 offseason. After initially agreeing to a three-year, $40.5 million deal with the Chicago Bears, he ended up in Pittsburgh following a failed physical. While he only accumulated one-and-a-half sacks and seven tackles for loss during the 2022 campaign, his impact did not always show up in the stat sheet. He quickly immersed himself in the culture of the organization and subsequently earned a three-year, $28.75 million contract to remain with the Steelers in 2023 and beyond. 

The Steelers' sizable investment in Ogunjobi speaks volumes about the type of production they hope to receive from him moving forward. Fortunately, as he detailed in a recent interview with Missi Matthews of steelers.com, the seventh-year pro feels much more prepared to be an impact player for the team's defense in 2023. 

"I think it's great, being able to have a full offseason, where I can actually train, and work out, and kind of do the things I love to do as far as football is concerned. Last year, dealing with the injury, it kind of takes a toll on you, but it's been real good to be able to get back to what I like doing," Ogunjobi answered. 

Steelers' Defensive Line Can Be Special In 2023

Ogunjobi is part of a Steelers' defensive line group that is absolutely loaded with talent. In addition to himself and perennial All-Pro candidate, Cameron Heyward, the team has players such as DeMarvin Leal, Montravius Adams, Armon Watts, Breiden Fehoko, Isaiahh Loudermilk and 2023 NFL Draft second-round pick, Keeanu Benton. With a nice mix of veteran leadership and young potential waiting to be untapped, the defensive line unit may be the most well-rounded positional group on the entire team. 

For Ogunjobi, he will be expected to be highly effective in both stopping the run and getting after the quarterback. At 6'3" and 305 pounds, he possesses a rare blend of size and speed at defensive end. With Heyward likely drawing a multitude of double teams this upcoming, there may be no better opportunity for Ogunjobi to replicate the type of production he had in 2021 during his time with the Cincinnati Bengals, in which he amassed seven sacks and 12 tackles for loss.  

Optimistically speaking, Ogunjobi will be able to remain healthy in 2023. He battled through a series of injuries in 2022, including a nagging foot injury that he suffered during his time with the Bengals. Now that he is fully recovered and has had a full offseason in Pittsburgh, the defense may have their best duo of defensive linemen since the Heyward and Stephon Tuitt era with Ogunjobi and Heyward. 

Final Thoughts 

The Steelers' front office has done a tremendous job of adding talent to both the defensive and offensive line positional groups. As much as the coaching staff hopes to run the ball effectively in 2023 behind Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren, they are likely equally as focused in stopping the run on the defensive side of the ball. Between the improved level of talent on the front line combined with a newly re-vamped inside linebacker group with players such as Cole Holcomb, Elandon Roberts and Tanner Muse, the team should be well-equipped in doing so next season. 

It is also important to note that Ogunjobi, along with Heyward, will have the opportunity to mentor young members of the positional group. His success in playing in a variety of different roles during his time with the Cleveland Browns, Bengals and Steelers will allow him to help players such as Leal, Benton and Loudermilk figure out how exactly they can be most effective in the team's 3-4 front. Steeler Nation is thankful to have Ogunjobi back in the fold in 2023! He may prove to be one of the best free agent signings in quite some time. 

How confident are you that Ogunjobi can have a big year in 2023? What are your expectations for other members of the defensive line room this upcoming season? Be sure to let us know in the comments! 

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