Steelers Fans Receive Exciting Update On Rookie Jack Sawyer

The Pittsburgh Steelers made the decision to draft National Champion linebacker Jack Sawyer with the 123rd overall pick in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Sawyer arrives in Pittsburgh as an under-the-radar prospect who fell further than expected, but the Steelers believe he has the potential to make an impact. Known for his relentless motor and physical style of play, he seems like a perfect fit for the Steelers' hard-nosed defense.

Even though Sawyer was taken in the fourth round, Steelers fans are still very excited about his future. Many believe he has the talent and mindset to become a very good player in the NFL. His experience at a championship program, combined with his consistent energy and effort, has generated a lot of optimism that the Steelers found a valuable piece for their defense.

On Thursday, Steelers insider Brian Batko shared an update on Sawyer’s progress during training camp. Batko reported that Sawyer has been standing out with his intensity and work ethic, earning praise from coaches and teammates. While it remains to be seen how big his role will be in his rookie season, Sawyer is already making a strong impression and building momentum toward earning playing time.

"He certainly looks the part," Batko said. "Jack Sawyer got a lot of first-team reps today with TJ Watt off and Alex Highsmith not needed to be in there every period."

The question Batko was asked was a simple one: any update on how Sawyer has looked so far in training camp. With superstar TJ Watt taking the day off on Thursday and Alex Highsmith not needed for every rep, Sawyer had a rare opportunity to get extended snaps. It was a valuable chance for the rookie to prove himself against NFL-level competition.

According to Batko, Head Coach Mike Tomlin appears to be impressed with what he’s seen from Sawyer so far. The next big test for the young linebacker will come when he lines up against the towering 6'7" tight end Darnell Washington, a physical mismatch that could give coaches a clearer picture of just how ready Sawyer is to contribute this season.

"Sawyer appears to be in great shape and I think Mike Tomlin likes what he's seeing out of him, but will want to put him against the likes of Darnell Washington before long," Batko said.

For a player like Sawyer, it’s surprising that he fell to the fourth round. He was one of the most dominant defensive players in college football during his career, but some analysts questioned whether his game would translate to the NFL. 

Steelers Believe They Got A Steal In Jack Sawyer

The Steelers saw value in him with the 123rd pick, and if Sawyer continues to build on the strong impression he has made early in camp, Tomlin will likely feel very good about the decision to draft him. The Steelers clearly feel they got a steal by landing Sawyer where they did in the draft. If he can continue to build on his strong start to training camp, the ceiling looks promising for Sawyer.

Earning playing time will not be easy for Sawyer in a crowded linebacker room, but he is the kind of player who should see opportunities within the defensive rotation. His effort, physicality, and instincts have already started to turn heads, and the coaching staff will be watching closely to see how he develops. 

For now, the reports from Steelers insiders are encouraging, and the fact that Sawyer looks ready for the challenge is exciting news. Steelers fans are so pumped up for the 2025 season. There is a lot of new faces and a lot of questions that will get answered quickly.

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