The Pittsburgh Steelers are revamping their defensive line this season! And Isaiahh Loudermilk, who was once a developmental piece, is finding himself in murky waters. The front office’s patience is running thin, and it seems that he no longer has the chance to prove himself. Undoubtedly, Loudermilk has had his moments, but when it comes to making a lasting impact, the results are not materializing. And, it is getting difficult for him to compete against a new wave of talent in Pittsburgh.

Steelers Depot, in its recent tweet, revealed that the team is eyeing the future. The X post reads, “Gerry Dulac Predicts Who Steelers Will Keep In Defensive Line Room #Steelers #NFL #Pittsburgh.” As Loudermilk treads water, two younger players are rising to challenge him for a spot.

Steelers insider Gerry Dulac also pointed out that the roster is in transition: “Probably [DeMarvin] Leal and see what you have in last year’s sixth-round pick, Logan Lee. They’ve given [Isaiahh] Loudermilk enough time to prove himself.” And, it is becoming more absolute that Loudermilk will be dropped in September.

DeMarvin Leal, a 2022 third-round pick by the Steelers, is entering the 2025 season with a renewed sense of motivation. Since he suffered a season-ending neck injury in 2024 with only limited opportunities to prove himself, he now wants to redeem himself. Prior to the injury, he recorded 33 tackles, one sack, and limited snaps in the past three years.

But, his flexibility, both as a defensive line and outside linebacker, makes him a solid contender. “It’s fair to question his job security, but the team would love to welcome him as a positive contributor,” Steelers Depot noted, stating that Leal still has potential that needs to be tapped.

Then there’s Logan Lee, the 2024 sixth-round pick out of Iowa. Lee missed his rookie season due to injury but was activated late in the year. At 6’5” and 280 lbs, Lee’s physical stature is domineering. If he impresses in training camp, he could earn a spot.

“They want to see what they have,” Dulac explained, suggesting that Lee is one to watch closely. Even if he does not make the 53-man roster, the practice squad remains an option for him to continue developing. Now, everyone is eyeing the defensive line that is getting excessively crowded.

Doors are closing on Isaiahh Loudermilk

Drafted in 2021, Loudermilk entered the NFL with the hopes of being a future starter. But it seems that his career hasn’t exactly lived up to expectations. As his status sinks, Cameron Heyward, 35, will be crucial to the Steelers’ defensive line as he coming off a First-Team All-Pro year. Then there’s Keeanu Benton, their newly anointed nose tackle of the future.

The Steelers’ 2025 draft is investing in youth and size. They have selected Derrick Harmon and Yahya Black, with huge stature. And, veterans Larry Ogunjobi and Montravius Adams have now been released, indicating that the transition is in full swing.

If Pittsburgh carries six or seven defensive linemen, Loudermilk will be competing with DeMarvin Leal, Logan Lee, Daniel Ekuale, Dean Lowry, Esezi Otomewo, and Jacob Slade for a spot. Of these, Lowry and Loudermilk are viewed as the most expendable. Loudermilk’s contract isn’t a barrier, and as analysts have noted, he hasn’t made the jump from “reliable” to “impactful.”

He had signed a one-year deal in 2025 worth $1.63 million with a cap hit of about $1.34 million, which is considerably modest for a defensive tackle. So now, as the Steelers shift towards a stronger, more athletic defensive front, the door seems to be closing for Loudermilk.