Steelers Insider Signals Massive Defensive Line Changes Likely Targeting 3 Players

The Pittsburgh Steelers defense was expected to really be a key reason for their success in the 2024 season. When the Steelers were 10-3, the defense was doing an excellent job, consistently pressuring quarterbacks and shutting down the run. However, injuries began to pile up late in the season, derailing the team's momentum. The Steelers lost five straight games to close out the year, including four regular season losses and an early playoff exit, leaving fans and analysts questioning what went wrong.

Veteran Cam Heyward emerged as a shining star despite the team’s struggles. At his age, his dominance on the field was nothing short of extraordinary, adding another impressive chapter to his career. His 2024 performance may have solidified his case for the Hall of Fame, as he remained the backbone of the defensive line. However, the rest of the line failed to meet expectations, leaving a glaring gap that opposing teams exploited.

According to Steelers insider Gerry Dulac, the team might be preparing for a significant shake-up on the defensive line. Dulac hinted that three linemen could be on the chopping block as the Steelers evaluate their roster for the 2025 season. With Heyward nearing the twilight of his career, the team faces mounting pressure to rebuild the defensive line into a formidable unit that can carry them deeper into the postseason.

"The D-line has been their biggest need the past two years," Dulac said. "If you want to know how Derrick Henry goes off for 162 and 186 in a matter of three weeks, look no further. Anyone who has paid attention has heard me say this since they drafted Kenny Pickett. Four of their six DL will be 30 or older next year... if there is a next year for three of 'em."

It’s unclear exactly which players Dulac is referencing, as several factors could influence who stays or goes. However, the key takeaway from Dulac’s comments is that the Steelers are likely to prioritize drafting defensive linemen in the 2025 draft. With Heyward’s dominance in 2024, it’s evident he’s still a force, but he can’t anchor the line forever. The team needs to ensure they have capable players ready to step up and sustain the defensive front's effectiveness for the future.

Larry Ogunjobi’s underwhelming performance in 2024 raised concerns about his role moving forward, while Keeanu Benton had a solid season, making significant strides that highlighted his long-term potential. Dean Lowry, on the other hand, struggled when given opportunities, contributing to the defensive line’s decline as the season progressed. The breakdown of the unit late in the season underscored the urgent need for reinforcements.

As Dulac noted, the issue isn’t complicated. The Steelers’ defensive line requires a serious overhaul to regain its strength. Drafting and developing talent will be crucial to ensuring the defense can remain a cornerstone of the team’s success in the coming years.

Steelers' Defensive Line Was Brutal As The Season Went On

If you surrender 299 rushing yards in a playoff game, it’s clear the defensive line has serious issues. Steeler Nation can at least find solace in the outstanding performances of Heyward and Benton in 2024. However, beyond those two, it’s reasonable to assume that every other player on the line could be under scrutiny.

The Steelers entered their playoff game against the Baltimore Ravens confident in their ability to contain Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry. Instead, they allowed both stars to dominate, doing whatever they pleased on the field. The Steelers’ defensive line was outmatched and consistently overpowered by the Ravens’ offensive front, failing to make an impact when it mattered most.

This dismal performance has fueled widespread agreement among Dulac, fans, and analysts that addressing the defensive line must be a top priority moving forward. The playoff loss was a stark reminder of the team's vulnerability in the trenches and the urgent need for reinforcements. 

The offseason will be crucial as the Steelers evaluate their defensive front and make tough decisions about who stays and who goes. With such glaring weaknesses exposed, it will be fascinating to see how the team reshapes the line to address these shortcomings and regain their defensive dominance.

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