Steelers 2022 NFL Draft preview: Top-3 edge rushers

The Steelers have to figure out their depth behind their starters at the outside linebacker position and they can find a good one in this draft. 

The Pittsburgh Steelers head into this draft of 2022 with their starting spots secured for the upcoming season. T.J. Watt is the reigning defensive player of the year after tying the NFL record for most sacks in a single season. Alex Highsmith showed that he can handle being a full-time starter in this league on the opposite side of Watt.

The team had some depth players flash during the late portions of the season but this club might have to address the depth still. Those that come in on downs when Watt or Highsmith need a break are going to be important for this team. They can look into the open market or at these edge rushers as it is one of the strengths of this class.

Honorable mentions

Jermaine Johnson, EDGE, Florida State

Jermaine Johnson is a player that has not gotten a lot of attention during the draft process thus far. He would be a good second or third-round option for any team looking for an edge rusher. He is the perfect size that the Steelers look for with their pass rushers.

He has the frame and looks of a Pittsburgh linebacker but he also has the stats. He shot onto the scene this year with totaling 12 sacks, He showed promise this season after transferring from Georgia.

David Ojabo, EDGE, Michigan

David Ojabo is a player that will go later in the first round but could become the best edge rusher in this class. He has a very high ceiling and will be someone the Steelers will struggle to pass over if he is still there at pick 20. The team wouldn’t likely pick him but his talent and potential would certainly bring a discussion in the draft room.

He played opposite of Aidan Hutchinson at Michigan and both will hear their names called on night one of the big event. Whoever selects this player will get an immediate impact player and someone with tremendous potential and growth moving forward.