The Pittsburgh Steelers gave up 299 yards on the ground in their playoff loss to the Baltimore Ravens to end the 2024 season. It was a loss that clearly stood out to the organization, highlighting the urgent need to improve their run defense. Heading into the 2025 NFL Draft, the Steelers made it a priority to address the defensive line. In the first round, they selected Derrick Harmon, a player known for his ability to disrupt running games and anchor a strong front. Harmon’s selection brought significant excitement to the team and its fanbase, signaling a clear effort to stop the run in the future.
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Steelers' Derrick Harmon (99) and Yahya Black (78) during rookie minicamp in 2025.
While Harmon was the headline grabber, the Steelers also found a hidden gem in fifth-round pick Yahya Black. Quietly, Black has been making a strong impression during offseason work and training camp. His combination of strength, technique, and ability to read plays has made him stand out as one of the biggest steals in the draft. Despite being a later-round selection, Black’s development suggests he could provide the Steelers with important depth and impact on the defensive line sooner rather than later.
Steelers Defensive Line Coach Karl Dunbar spoke with the media about what went into evaluating Black. He highlighted the process of identifying under-the-radar players who have the potential to exceed expectations. Black’s selection reflects Pittsburgh’s careful approach to the draft. In this case, Dunbar thought he was able to see something that tape didn't.
"We were lucky enough to get him in the fifth round because some of his college tape didn't really show who he was," Dunbar said. "But when I worked him out, and I was around him, I thought he could help us."
Dunbar explained that the film Black put out at Iowa did not fully showcase his abilities. However, the Steelers coaching staff was able to see his potential despite what the tape showed.
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Steelers' Yahya Black celebrates after winning a big game in his college career.
At the NFL Combine, Black ran a 5.39-second 40-yard dash, which Dunbar believes actually worked in Pittsburgh’s favor and reinforced the team’s belief that Black had the tools to succeed at the next level.
"It worked out great for us, because I think he ran a 5.4 [second 40-yard dash time] at the Combine," Dunbar said. "I don't think that his Combine time was indicative to his play speed. So I think that's what's helped us out just to get him in the fifth round."
The Steelers have not hit a home run with Black just yet. It is still very early in his NFL career, but even in the early stages, he is performing ahead of the typical fifth-round pick. Pittsburgh originally drafted him with the idea that he could provide depth down the stretch, but Black has quickly made it difficult to keep him off the field.
Steelers' Yahya Black Not Under The Radar Anymore
So far, Black has quietly excelled as an under-the-radar rookie. However, he is no longer a hidden gem. Expectations have grown, and he is now counted on to make plays consistently. The rest of the season will not be easy, but Black will look to build on the momentum he has created and continue proving why the Steelers took a chance on him.
Steelers YouTube Channel
Steelers' Yahya Black speaks to the Pittsburgh media as he prepares for his rookie season in the NFL.
When Black first started trending upward in the offseason, it was all fun and games. Now, however, he is no longer under the radar. Steelers fans will expect him to build on this high praise as the 2025 season continues. Hearing Dunbar speak about what led to the Steelers drafting Black was super interesting.
What do you think about the Steelers drafting Yahya Black in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft? 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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