4 in-house options the Steelers can use to replace DE Stephon Tuitt

Steelers replacement #3

A relative surprise from the draft last season, Isaiahh Loudermilk was a shocking selection. The Steelers traded up for him despite most not viewing him that highly and he joined a crowded defensive line room. Injuries forced him into action sooner than most thought he would have to see the field, but he mostly held his own.

He is second to last on this list due to his limitations as a player. While a solid run defender, Loudermilk offers next to nothing as a pass rusher. He can see an increased look in base defense but expecting him to replicate Tuitt’s ability as a pass rusher would be disastrous. He needs to prove himself as a pass rusher more before he can be counted on to take on Tuitt’s role entirely.

While Loudermilk not being a great replacement for Tuitt seems disappointing on paper, it isn’t the end of the world. This opens his path to seeing similar playing time as he did last season, even if he is only being used during base defense. I expect Loudermilk to see a bump in snaps even if he isn’t penciled in to replace Tuitt.