The Pittsburgh Steelers have long been focused on establishing a dominant running game, playing strong defense, and returning to a physically imposing style of football. That's why when the Steelers hired Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith for the 2024 season, there was a lot of excitement about what he could bring to the offense. However, after one season under Smith, the Steelers still have work to do before they can truly be considered Super Bowl contenders.
Benjamin B. Braun / Post-Gazette
Steelers' Mike Tomlin and Arthur Smith celebrate a big time win in the Steel City.
Watching Super Bowl LIX between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles, one thing became abundantly clear: the Steelers' principles might still work. You just must have the right players in place to make it successful. The Eagles' defensive line disrupted Patrick Mahomes, forcing him into one of his worst performances. It was a dominant display by the Eagles' defense.
Following the Eagles' Super Bowl domination, NFL analyst Daniel Jeremiah shared some exciting news. He revealed that the Steelers, along with the rest of the league, have a chance to follow in the Eagles' footsteps. The 2025 NFL Draft is stacked with defensive line talent, and Jeremiah believes it would be wise for teams to target that position heavily if they want to replicate the Eagles' success.
This game was absolutely dominated by Eagles front four. Good news for the rest of the league- this draft is loaded with DL. Good draft to double up at the position.
— Daniel Jeremiah (@MoveTheSticks) February 10, 2025
While many Steelers fans are frustrated with the organization’s recent mediocrity, there’s still hope that General Manager Omar Khan and his assistant, Andy Weidl, understand what needs to be done. That’s why the Steelers have recently placed such a strong emphasis on drafting in the trenches. Weidl, who played a key role in building the Eagles' dominant offensive and defensive lines, remains one of the few figures in the organization who still gives fans hope.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers assistant general Manager Andy Weidl sits at the podium as he speaks to members of the local and national media.
Weidl and Khan recognize the importance of the approach the Eagles took and how impactful a dominant line can be when executed properly. The issue for the Steelers, however, is that despite attempting to follow this blueprint, they haven’t yet had the right players in place to make it work.
With Cam Heyward delivering a dominant season when many thought his best years were behind him, it’s disappointing that the team couldn’t capitalize on that performance. Strengthening the defensive line could be a critical step toward turning things around in 2025 and putting the Steelers back on track.
Steelers Can Get Momentum With The 2025 NFL Draft
This year’s draft class is loaded with talent, particularly along the defensive line, and Mike Tomlin, along with the key decision-makers in Pittsburgh, are well aware of the opportunities it presents. At the Senior Bowl, the Steelers made it clear that they were focused on the defensive line, keeping a close eye on the standout players. The 2025 NFL Draft now presents Pittsburgh with a golden opportunity to bring in a game-changing player who could elevate their defense to new heights.
The Steelers already have a solid foundation on defense, but upgrading the defensive line might be the missing piece that pushes them over the top. Steeler Nation is very eager to see what direction their beloved franchise will take in the 2025 NFL Draft. They have a legit chance to double up and upgrade their trenches. The Steelers can get momentum in the draft, but they will need to make all the right moves.
Steelers.com
Steelers' Mike Tomlin talks on the phone with George Pickens after Pittsburgh drafted him.
By capitalizing on this deep pool of talent, Pittsburgh has the chance to build a dominant, physical defense that can compete with the league’s best. With the right moves, the Steelers could quickly turn things around and solidify their status as Super Bowl contenders once again. The future of the defense is bright, and the 2025 draft could be the key to unlocking their full potential.
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