Did the Steelers Just Get the Steal of the Draft?
The Steelers with Mike Tomlin have always been rooted in their strong defenses over the years. The Steelers franchise has always prioritized defense over their offense despite the NFL shifting in that direction for years. Many people have criticized the Steelers for only focusing on defense, but it has always kept them performing at an above average level. This draft was no different. Championing this philosophy, they may have just secured one of the steals of the draft in the fourth round.
Jack Sawyer, was a massive contributor for the Ohio State Buckeyes on their road to a National Championship this past year. His biggest moment came in the College Football Playoff Semifinal game against the Texas Longhorns when he sacked his former teammate, Quinn Ewers, and returned the ball 83 yards for a touchdown late in the game. Despite him not having the most eye-popping stats over his college career, his leadership and impact, certainly made a massive difference for the Buckeyes. Despite the Steeler's strong defense, they saw an opportunity in the fourth round with pick number 123 to take him and they won’t regret that decision. With the Steelers constantly seeking players with toughness and grit to them, Jack Sawyer makes all the sense in the world to be wearing the black and gold. He will be a leader in the locker room and play with the heart of a national champion.
With Sawyer and their first-round defensive tackle Derrick Harmon lining up next to T.J. Watt, this Steelers defense will be dominant again next season. With a new quarterback taking the field for the yellow and gold next season, they will need the defense to step up while the offense gets acquainted with one another. The Steelers opted not to take a quarterback in this draft until Jack Sawyer’s former teammate, Will Howard, fell to them in the sixth round. There is a lot of uncertainty revolving around this offense, especially with who will be starting for the Steelers in the fall. However, the one thing we do know is that the Steeler's defense will manhandle even the best offenses in the NFL next season.
