The Steelers drafted two defensive players in the sixth round a couple weeks ago, but defensive tackle Isaiah Buggs and linebacker Sutton Smith are both looking to showcase their potential this upcoming season despite their late selections. While both were drafted in the later rounds in the 2019 NFL Draft, their respective skill sets could prove to be much more valuable.
Buggs accounted for 9.5 sacks in his senior season and after watching footage of him play, it's a bit surprising to understand how he slid as far as he did in the draft. Although Buggs will be a backup to Cam Heyward and Stephon Tuitt, he could learn a lot playing behind these two. The Steelers defensive front was a bright spot last season and Buggs could help further stifle opposing running attacks in 2019.
How in the world did Isaiah Buggs last until the late sixth round? Explosive guy with good hand usage. Steelers got a dang steal. pic.twitter.com/DHPrdUQbvc
— Nick Farabaugh (@FarabaughFB) April 27, 2019
Sutton Smith looks like the prototypical linebacker the Steelers often possess on their defense. While Sutton may not get a whole lot of playing time right off the bat, his snaps could increase throughout the season if he brings the same intensity he displayed in college. The Steelers could benefit greatly from Smith's strength and ability to be a force in the pass rush. Smith's 15 sacks in 2018 could be a huge indication of great things to come for him in Pittsburgh.
Me trying to watch highlights of WR Deionte Johnson, but this OLB Sutton Smith, keeps coming up big, and he takes the RT to school. Smith is one of my most exciting players Steelers drafted. Wow! ???? #HereWeGo #SteelersDraft pic.twitter.com/sSMgwEtMtj
— Steel Legends (@Steel_Legends) May 2, 2019
