The Pittsburgh Steelers' defense has shouldered much of the team's weight, particularly during a challenging year for the offense in the 2023 season. However, recent offensive standout performances by Mason Rudolph have taken some much needed pressure off the defense.
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Pittsburgh Steelers star linebacker from Wisconsin, TJ Watt recovers a loose football securing a fumble in a regular season game against the Miami Dolphins.
Steelers Defensive Coordinator Teryl Austin recently highlighted the contributions of a lesser-known defensive player who has quietly become a valuable asset for the team. While names like TJ Watt, Nick Herbig, and Keeanu Benton may ring familiar, it's another player from the Wisconsin Badgers that has captured Austin's attention.
The Steelers' Hidden Gem
Isaiahh Loudermilk, a product of the University of Wisconsin, has been flying somewhat under the radar this season. However, he's been on the Steelers' coaching staff's radar.
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Defensive linemen Keeanu Benton (95) and Isaiahh Loudermilk (97) are teammates once again, this time with the Steelers.
Austin, has recognized his growing importance within the Steelers' defensive unit. During an interview with a member of DK Pittsburgh Sports, Austin was asked to describe the Badgers connection on defense.
"I love 'em. Let's draft a few more, because they've all been pretty good. Obviously, we know about T.J. and Herbig is doing well. [Isaiahh Loudermilk] is a guy that's kind of under the radar, but I'll tell you what, 'Milk's really developing into a valuable backup for us. Getting some solid minutes in there. The Wisconsin farm team's doing great."
Austin's playful reference to the "Wisconsin farm team" highlights the trend of the Steelers drafting Wisconsin defenders who have transitioned seamlessly into impactful players at the next level.
Watt, who was named the Steelers' Team MVP for the fourth time, has had a historic season, currently sharing the NFL sack leader title with 17 sacks. Watt's contributions are well-known and celebrated. Herbig, a promising rookie, has also made his presence felt with three sacks and two forced fumbles, including a critical play against the Seattle Seahawks. Benton has contributed one sack and two forced fumbles in his rookie season. Those three guys have really been a force for the Steelers defense this season.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Isaiahh Loudermilk (92) participates in the Organized Team Activities (OTAs), Tuesday May 25, 2021 at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex.
While these Wisconsin players have rightfully received their share of attention, Loudermilk has quietly been making strides. While he hasn't seen extensive action this season, Austin expressed his satisfaction with Loudermilk's development and the solid minutes he's been contributing. Loudermilk was drafted in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft. The Steelers selected him 156th overall.
Austin also noted that Benton is gaining a deeper understanding of the game, particularly when it comes to deciphering blocking schemes. The Steelers' recent track record of drafting Wisconsin defensive players bodes well for Loudermilk's future development. His progress is worth monitoring as he continues to grow within the Steelers' defensive rotation.
Over the next few seasons, witnessing the development of these Wisconsin defensive talents within the Steelers' roster promises to be an exhilarating experience. As the team's coaching staff continues to nurture these emerging stars, Steeler Nation can look forward to an exciting period of growth and performance on the gridiron.
The rich tradition of drafting players from the Wisconsin and molding them into impactful NFL contributors appears poised to continue, bringing even more depth and potential to the Steelers' already formidable defense. It's an evolution that not only adds excitement to the present, but also holds the promise of a brighter future for the Steelers' defense.
As the Steelers prepare for their regular season finale against the Baltimore Ravens in Week 18, the team faces a must-win scenario to keep their slim playoff hopes alive. Securing a victory on Saturday is paramount, and the Steelers will also be relying on assistance from other teams on Sunday to secure a postseason berth. Loudermilk's contributions, along with those of his fellow Wisconsin alumni, may play a crucial role in the team's pursuit of a playoff spot.
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