5 Steelers that need to see more playing time going forward

Isaiah Buggs

The Steelers defensive line is one of the best in the league right now, but that doesn’t mean every starter should be playing 80 percent of the snaps. While the Steelers have rotated their starters out, one player not getting enough of an opportunity is second-year lineman Isaiah Buggs. The former Alabama lineman has only played 43 defensive snaps, and while his stats aren’t gaudy, he flashes good hand technique and rush ability.

Given his size, he would be an interesting option to play at nose tackle. That isn’t to say the Steelers should give less playing time to Tyson Alualu, they shouldn’t as he has been one of the best defenders so far this season. Instead, Buggs should be the first lineman off the bench when the Steelers rotate their linemen.

This would mean fewer snaps for Chris Wormley, whom the Steelers acquired via trade this offseason. While he has provided solid depth, he will be a free agent next year and has shown less as a pass rusher than Buggs. Allowing Buggs the first opportunity off the bench will allow the Steelers to see if they have anything in him. As well, his size makes it possible that he could make a more permanent move inside like Alualu as early as next year.