The Pittsburgh Steelers have been desperate to begin establishing the future on the defensive line over the past few seasons. With players like Javon Hargrave and Stephon Tuitt leaving the team and Cameron Heyward on the back nine of his career, finding who will be the next great defensive lineman in Pittsburgh continues to become a hot button issue. The Steelers have made several attempts in recent seasons to not only bring the line up to par for the present, but acquire guys who they feel can be long-term contributors.
Keeanu Benton had a promising rookie season in 2023, compiling 36 tackles, two forced fumbles and a sack, but the Steelers need to see more from guys that have been in the system for a few seasons. Two such players are DeMarvin Leal and Isaiahh Loudermilk, who were brought into Pittsburgh a year apart. Loudermilk (2021) and Leal (2022) were drafted with the hopes they could develop into long-term options on the line.
However, their potential has yet to shine through as the two have combined for 75 tackles and just two sacks, not exactly numbers that signal franchise caliber players. With both individuals are feeling the pressure to contribute, and acknowledging the opportunity to make a difference due to the lack of depth, the two have been busy working this offseason. During his weekly Steelers chat , Ray Fittipaldo of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette , acknowledges the importance of the two having a big season.
"There weren't a lot of quality DL in this year's d.
