The Pittsburgh Steelers selected Jack Sawyer, an outside linebacker from Ohio State, in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft with the 123rd overall pick. The Steelers didn't have a glaring need at this position, but they felt the talent available at that spot was too good to pass up. Sawyer, known for his explosive pass-rushing ability and strong defensive presence, adds depth to the Steelers' linebacker corps.
Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive lineman Fred Stokes (68), linebacker Jack Sawyer (33), long snapper Taybor Pepper (49) and linebacker Carson Bruener (44) participate in the Steelers' rookie minicamp at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex, Saturday, May 10, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA.
Sawyer joins a talented group of outside linebackers in Pittsburgh, with the opportunity to learn behind two of the league's top pass rushers, TJ Watt and Alex Highsmith. This environment offers Sawyer the chance to develop his skills under the guidance of proven veterans, ensuring a strong foundation for his career. The Steelers believe his future is bright.
During an episode of the Footbahlin with Ben Roethlisberger podcast, Roethlisberger expressed his high expectations for Sawyer. While he’s not rushing the young player’s progress, Roethlisberger firmly believes that Sawyer will become a star in the league. With a combination of strong mentorship and his own talent, Roethlisberger predicts Sawyer will eventually reach those lofty heights.
"That dude [Jack Sawyer] has every potential to be a captain on this team," Roethlisberger said on his Footbahlin podcast. "Dude is gonna be good, I think."
Roethlisberger recently welcomed Sawyer and his college teammate and now professional teammate, quarterback Will Howard, to his podcast. The two former college stars, now Steelers draft picks, shared their excitement about joining the black and gold.
ABC
Steelers quarterback Will Howard hypes up his college teammate Jack Sawyer during the College Football Playoffs.
Roethlisberger matched their enthusiasm, expressing how thrilled he is to see players of their caliber land in Pittsburgh. He believes Watt and Highsmith can play a big role in helping Sawyer thrive at the next level.
"And I think it's gonna be great, because he's going to get to learn behind some studs," Roethlisberger said. "Maybe the greatest to ever play the game in TJ [Watt], Alex [Highsmith], who's a high-motor, high-quality, high-character guy that is a really good football player as well... I think it's awesome to see the lineage, right? The pass of the baton. At some point, TJ has kind of passed it to Alex. In terms of respect, from TJ to Alex, I think that's been earned. And it will be fun to watch the evolution of Jack in that role as well."
Both Sawyer, a fourth-round pick, and Howard, selected in the sixth round, played key roles in leading OSU to the 2024 National Championship. Their leadership, toughness, and championship experience stood out throughout their college careers. Now, they bring that winning pedigree to a Steelers team that values grit, discipline, and big-game experience.
Roethlisberger praised their mentality and approach, noting that their transition to the NFL will be made easier by their time at a powerhouse program like OSU. With their bond already established and their resumes loaded with success, the Steelers are hopeful these two can be valuable additions as they begin their professional journey in Pittsburgh.
Roethlisberger believes both players bring genuine passion and excitement about joining the Steelers and embracing the team’s culture. He noted that while many players tend to say all the right things when they arrive in the NFL, there was something different about Sawyer and Howard. Their energy felt real and, as he put it, contagious.
Steelers May Have Hit 2 Home Run's With Sawyer And Howard
That level of enthusiasm stood out to Roethlisberger, who has seen plenty of young players enter the league. He made it clear this wasn't just typical rookie talk. He could sense a true desire to be part of the organization and to contribute to its success. Their mindset and approach impressed him right away.
Julio Cortez / Associated Press
Steelers' 2025 NFL Draft selections from Ohio State, Will Howard and Jack Sawyer, after winning the CFP National Championship in January of 2025.
For Steelers fans, that should be a promising sign. These two late-round picks, who played key roles in the Buckeye's national championship run, may offer more upside than most expected. With their proven winning mentality and strong first impression, they could turn out to be valuable additions in Pittsburgh.
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