How Confident Should The Steelers Be In Their Depth At Defensive Line Heading Into The 2023 Season?

The Pittsburgh Steelers' depth at defensive line is perhaps the least talked about area of concern for the team heading into the 2023 season. Apart from Cam Heyward and DeMarvin Leal, one could argue that there are no other defensive linemen currently under contract who are locks to make the 53-man roster in August. Montravius Adams and Isaiahh Loudermilk have a better chance than most, but did not perform well enough last season to guarantee their spot on the roster in 2023. 

Additionally, the Steelers may elect to bring back veteran defensive end Larry Ogunjobi, which would help solidify their depth. However, even if Ogunjobi is a Steeler next season, there are questions that need to be answered regarding depth at such a critical positional group. Below you will find some options the Steelers have at defensive line heading in to the 2023 season!

Bryan Bresee: Defensive Lineman, Clemson

This would be a dream scenario for the Steelers at 17. Coming in to Clemson, Bryan Bresee was nation's top recruit of the 2020 class and played well during his time with the Tigers racking up 15 TFL and 9 sacks during his three years on the team. He was named Second Team All-ACC for the 2022 season. His size at 6'5", 305 pounds is something that should interest the Steelers and has all the intangibles to fit in well to the Steelers' 3-4 defensive scheme. 

Bresee also did well in improving his draft stock with his performance at the NFL Combine. His 4.86 second 40-yard dash and 29" inch vertical proved his freakish athletic ability, a rare blend of size and speed at the defensive end position. Perhaps the biggest link between Bresee and the Steelers is his relationship with Head Coach Mike Tomlin. Bresee had this to offer at the NFL Combine:

"I've known Coach Tomlin since my Freshman year at Clemson. He's a great guy, super easy to talk to and just a phenomenal coach," said Bresee. 

Gervon Dexter Sr: Defensive Tackle, Florida 

Gervon Dexter is a large human being. At 6'6" and 310 pounds, he would fit in quite nicely in the middle of the Steelers' defensive front and has reportedly met with the Steelers on a top 30 visit. While he is not particularly quick off the ball, he makes up for it with immense power and strength. However, his quickness off the ball may have improved since his time in Gainesville, after running an absurd 4.88 second 40-yard dash. 4.88 seconds at 310 (which many indicate is more) pounds. 

Omar Khan, you may have just found your long-term answer at nose tackle. Dexter is currently projected as a middle second-round pick, but is quickly seeing his stock rising. Do not be surprised if Dexter hears his name called out on the first night of the 2023 NFL Draft. Or, for the sake of the Steelers, the first pick of the second round at pick #32 or possibly pick #49. If the Steelers have interest in moving on from veteran Montravius Adams, Dexter may be able to help fill the void. 

Chris Wormley: Defensive End, Pittsburgh Steelers 

Sorry Steelers' fans, I just don't think there is anyway the team could afford Javon Hargrave. However, the decision to bring back Chris Wormley makes sense on a number of different levels. Since being traded from the Baltimore Ravens to the Steelers in 2020, the former Michigan Wolverine has done well as a rotational defensive end. He played especially well during the 2021 season where he racked up 7 sacks and 6 TFL. 

While Wormley may not be as dynamic as other free agent defensive ends, his familiarity within the Steelers' defense has to be taken in to consideration. He is well liked in the locker room and would most likely not break the bank in terms of contract negotiations. Most projections have him between $4 million - $6 million in annual salary. Perhaps the biggest concern with Wormley is that he is coming off an ACL tear that he suffered in the Week 14 loss versus the Ravens. With the injury taking place in December, it is hard to imagine a scenario where he is ready to roll for the start of training camp. This is why the likelihood of the Steelers re-signing both Wormley and fellow free agent Larry Ogunjobi is possible. 

Final Thoughts

The importance of the defensive line can't be overstated for the black and gold. They set the tone for the entire defense. While the Steelers could look to sign veteran free agents to help with the depth at this position group, one could argue that their needs would be met more effectively by signing internal candidates, such as Wormley and Ogunjobi, as well as looking to the 2023 NFL Draft. 

One name not mentioned was Steelers defensive tackle and impending free agent, Tyson Alualu. At nearly 36 years old and coming off of a down year, I just do not see a scenario in which the team opts to bring him back. Alualu has been one of the most beloved defenders on the team since coming over from Jacksonville in  2017. Perhaps he may decide to retire. Either way, he will most likely not be a Steeler in 2023. 

The thought of drafting a player such as Bresee or Dexter to pair with All-Pro Cam Heyward is incredibly exciting to think about. There is a strong possibility that both of these players will be gone, especially Bresee, by the time the Steelers are on the board. Regardless, the need for the front office to find some long term answers at the defensive line is crucially important. 

What do you think about the current state of our defensive line? Is there a prospect in the draft you would love for the team to look at? Maybe a veteran free agent who could make an immediate impact? Let us know in the comments what you think! 

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