In the 2024 season, HC Mike Tomlin was happy that his defensive plans were working perfectly. The Steelers came 24th in tackles (1,038) and 17th in sacks (40) but 3rd in interceptions (17) last year. While RBs like Najee Harris were sweating in the offense, LB Nick Herbig and other defensive players stopped the rivals. But there was one thing required to do that. Consistency over motivation! While they are motivated to win a Super Bowl after 17 years, the front office is listening to their concerns and helping them fill positions with the best player available.

In the 4th round, they drafted Ohio State DE Jack Sawyer. This filled the locker room with excitement. DC Teryl Austin was over Cloud 9 and said, “This guy right here is really good. Tough, unbelievable intangibles, football character.” Now, the analysts have also given their approval for Mike Tomlin’s choice.

Steelers reporter Brooke Pryor appeared on the Bishop and Friends Podcast, where she defined how the Black and the Gold have struck a fortune in the 6-foot-4, 260 lbs rookie. “Adding Jack Sawyer to me almost represents not drafting for now. You are starting to draft for the future…Have him learn from TJ Watt and Alex Highsmith and have him learn alongside Nick Herbig…you have family established this pipeline,” she said while comparing the scenario.

In 4 years for the Ohio State, he played 54 games and recorded 1 interception, 11 defended passes, 4 forced fumbles, 23 sacks, and 144 tackles (68 solo). With Nick Herbig in his 3rd year at the franchise, Mike Tomlin will be hoping that the rookie learns fast. He is also desperate for the trophy.

Not only the defensive line, the Steelers also want to overhaul the O-line. They need offensive weapons that can perform in the crucial moments. That’s the only way forward.

Mike Tomlin brings a lethal RB

In the 3rd round of the 2025 NFL Draft, Iowa RB Kaleb Johnson landed in the Steel City. The Steelers required him this year after their ace RB Najee Harris left the team for the LA Chargers. He had all four 1000+ rushing yards seasons, finishing with 1,097 rushes in 4,312 rushing yards and 28 touchdowns.

While praising the rookie and talking about his role in the offense, Pryor added, “The seamless transition from Iowa’s zone based system to Pittsburgh’s downhill rushing attack could help Johnson hit the ground running in the pros. With the Steelers fielding a massive offensive line specializing in bulldozing defenders of the ball, Johnson could immediately post a 1,000-yard season as the team’s new RB1.” Hopefully.

It was not just Mike Tomlin’s planning. Even the owner, Art Rooney II, had claimed that although they were not interested in any position, they were interested in the quarterback and running back positions. There’s a striking similarity that propelled the Steelers’ front office to draft him.

Najee Harris stands at 6-foot-1, 242 lbs, Kaleb Johnson measures 6-foot-1, 224 lbs. That plays a big role in their system of play. Fans want him to have an even bigger role in the game.