The Pittsburgh Steelers used their fourth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft to select outside linebacker Jack Sawyer. They were super impressed to see a player with the football knowledge and intangibles he had fall into their laps with the 123rd overall pick. It was a no-brainer for the team to take the Ohio State product. Sawyer comes to Pittsburgh after playing a key role in helping the Buckeyes win the 2024 National Championship and brings a championship mindset to a defense already loaded with talent.
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Steelers' Jack Sawyer during his time with the Ohio State Buckeyes.
Many Steelers fans are excited about what Sawyer could bring to the table, especially with the team’s long-standing tradition of dominant pass rushers. His high motor, toughness, and ability to quickly diagnose plays make him a natural fit in Pittsburgh’s aggressive defensive scheme. With TJ Watt and Alex Highsmith already leading the edge unit, Sawyer is expected to learn from the best while carving out his own role as a disruptive force off the bench.
Before he was drafted, Sawyer made headlines during an appearance with Mike Florio and Chris Simms on NFL on NBC, where he revealed the quarterbacks he's most excited to sack. Without hesitation, he named Joe Burrow and Lamar Jackson—two of the Steelers’ biggest rivals in the AFC North. The bold comments fired up Steeler Nation and sent a clear message across the division: Sawyer is coming, and he’s not backing down from anyone.
"I am excited to try and sack guys like Joe Burrow and Patrick Mahomes, Jalen Hurts, Lamar Jackson," Sawyer said. "It’s gonna be fun to get after them for many years to come."
Sawyer was undeniably one of the top defensive players in college football during his time at OSU. For the Steelers to land him in the fourth round was widely seen as a major steal—tremendous value for a team that prides itself on defensive talent. While some teams reportedly passed on Sawyer due to concerns about his athletic measurables and limited length, Pittsburgh saw beyond the numbers. Their evaluation focused on football IQ, toughness, and effort—traits they value above all else.
The Steelers made it clear that Sawyer has 'Steelers DNA,' and that identity was a major reason they felt he belonged in Pittsburgh. He might not be the flashiest or most physically imposing prospect in the draft, but he’s the kind of relentless, high-motor player who thrives in the black and gold. The front office and coaching staff were drawn to his intensity, leadership, and dedication to the game.
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Steelers' Jack Sawyer runs with the football during the College Football Playoff.
Sawyer’s mentality has already made an impression. He’s not afraid of a challenge, as shown in his recent comments about targeting the league’s elite quarterbacks. His confidence and edge fit perfectly with the Steelers’ defensive culture, and fans are already rallying behind the young linebacker who’s ready to bring the fight to the AFC North.
Sawyer falling into the fourth round was seen by some as a major steal for the Steelers. While others expected him to slip a bit due to concerns about polish or fit, there’s no denying the potential value Pittsburgh may have landed with the pick. His college film shows a player with raw power, quick instincts, and the ability to disrupt plays in the backfield. The Steelers have a strong track record of turning mid-round picks into productive starters, and Sawyer could be next in line.
Steelers Got A Highly Motivated Gamer In Jack Sawyer
One thing is certain—Sawyer is coming to Pittsburgh with a chip on his shoulder and a relentless motor. He plays with intensity and hunger, eager to prove doubters wrong and show he belongs in the NFL. That edge could serve him well in training camp, where he'll need to stand out among a competitive group of defenders. Coaches love his effort and toughness, traits that should quickly earn him respect in the locker room.
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Steelers' Jack Sawyer looks on after winning the National Championship.
He’ll have the chance to learn from elite playmakers on one of the league’s top defenses. Veterans like Watt and Cameron Heyward can provide invaluable mentorship as Sawyer adjusts to the speed of the pro game. If he soaks up that knowledge and continues to refine his technique, his upside is enormous. Over the next few seasons, he could grow into a vital piece of the Steelers’ defensive future.
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