The retirement of Pittsburgh Steelers defensive lineman Stephon Tuitt last week shocked many, and it won't be easy to replace a guy like him. Tuitt's retirement allows some of the younger linemen to mature and get more playing time in 2022. The obvious beneficiary of this is second-year DL Isaiahh Loudermilk.
Defensive Coordinator Teryl Austin will spend his first season at his new position after being a defensive assistant and secondary coach for three seasons. He's seen firsthand just how much Loudermilk has grown this off-season. After talking about the loss of Tuitt, Austin discussed Loudermilk's physical improvements with Missi Matthews.
"What you see is that he's actually got that grown man weight on," Austin said. "And it's good weight, good strength, good muscle. He's a big, big man, and he showed some good promise last year."
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end, Isaiahh Loudermilk (#92) participates in the Organized Team Activities (OTA's), Tuesday, May 31, 2022 at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex. | Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Last year, Loudermilk came out of college and into his first NFL season as a raw, unfinished product. Size had a lot to do with that, as he was a bit undersized and got pushed around a decent bit as a rookie. Now, everyone's been raving about how much bigger he looks this year, including how much muscle he's put on. It's unclear as to just how much muscle and weight he's put on, but it's enough for many to notice a change. This should only help his prospects as a sophomore in 2022 when he gets on the field.
While Cameron Heyward, Tyson Alualu, and Chris Wormley seem locked in as the starters on the defensive line, Loudermilk will still get plenty of playing time. If and when an injury takes place, he's likely the next guy up. Loudermilk will get on the field as is via rotational snaps and giving the starters a breather. In turn, his expectations are higher for his second year.
"We're expecting him to build on it coming into his second year, and I think he understands the NFL game a lot better this year," said Austin. "I expect him to make a nice jump for us."
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Isaiahh Loudermilk (92). | Twitter: @JSKO_PHOTO
An ascension from Loudermilk would be so crucial for the future of the Steelers' defensive line. Heyward and Alualu are only getting older, and the room beyond them is mostly unproven. Rookie DeMarvin Leal has an unlimited upside, but one can only expect so much out of a first-year guy, nonetheless his future beyond that. This season should end up being a good indicator on what kind of player the Steelers have in Loudermilk.
What are your guys' expectations for Loudermilk this season? Do you think he can become that guy for the future? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below!
#SteelerNation
