Steelers Have 4 Explosive Rookies Turning Heads Across The NFL

The Pittsburgh Steelers drafting has been much better under General Manager Omar Khan but it's still early in his tenure. The General Manager before Khan was Kevin Colbert, who led the Steelers from 2010 through 2022. While Colbert enjoyed significant success early in his tenure and helped build two Super Bowl-winning rosters, many believe his last few drafts were disappointing and left Pittsburgh in a challenging position.

The 2025 draft class featured several exciting players, and through the first four games of the 2025 NFL season, four Steelers rookies have earned a spot on The Athletic’s Early All-Rookie Team, albeit all four were listed as honorable mentions. Those rookies were linebackers Jack Sawyer and Carson Bruener, along with defensive linemen Derrick Harmon and Yahya Black, a group that reflects the organization’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the defensive side of the ball.

Sawyer has already turned heads with his quick burst off the edge and relentless motor, showing early signs that he can become a disruptive presence in opposing backfields. Bruener has impressed with his instincts and physicality on special teams, standing out in his 65 plays. Both players have demonstrated the kind of energy and effort that the Steelers covet on their roster and their early recognition highlights how quickly they are adapting to the NFL level.

On the defensive line, Harmon and Black have provided size and toughness in the trenches, giving Pittsburgh fresh legs and power to complement its established rotation. Harmon’s strength at the point of attack and Black’s ability to plug gaps have helped the Steelers maintain their defensive identity. Even as honorable mentions, their inclusion on the list is a promising sign for the future. If this rookie group continues to develop, Khan’s 2025 draft class could serve as a cornerstone in keeping Pittsburgh’s defense among the league’s most feared units for many years to come.

Of course, Harmon did suffer an injury during the preseason, and at first, it appeared to be quite serious. He had to be carted off the field, and the emotional moment was hard for both Harmon and Steelers fans, who feared the worst. However, as the game progressed and more information became available, it was revealed that Harmon would only miss a couple of games at the start of the season. 

He returned to action in Week 3 and played in Week 4, quickly regaining his footing despite the early setback. Even with the missed time, Harmon’s performance on the field was strong enough to earn him a spot on The Athletic’s honorable mention list, highlighting his resilience and immediate impact once he returned. His ability to bounce back so quickly demonstrates not only his talent but also the toughness and determination that the Steelers prize in their young players.

Steelers' Defense Needs To Stop The Bleeding Fast

This Steelers' defense was widely regarded as one of the best units in the NFL. Through the first four games, the unit has had its moments, but it has also struggled at times to stop the run and limit deep passes. There have been some schematic breakdowns, yet this talented and highly paid Steelers defense is expected to tighten up and stop the bleeding as the season progresses. 

Amid the ups and downs, it’s exciting to see four rookies earning recognition this early in the 2025 season, showing that Pittsburgh’s future on defense is bright. All eyes are on the Steelers defense as they return from their bye week, looking to strike back in full force.

What Steelers rookies have you been most impressed with through the first four games of the 2025 season? Let us know in the comments below! Please feel free to share your Steelers takes with me on X @anthonyghalkias and follow me.

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