Steelers must watch these defensive linemen for the 2023 NFL Draft

The Steelers should keep an eye on these defensive linemen for the upcoming draft because they might need some. 

Pittsburgh carries one of the most expensive defenses in the NFL, but the group continues to struggle in certain areas. Their defensive line should not carry massive issues against stopping the run, but they do. Investing into the trenches on both sides of the football for the Steelers should be high on their to-do list when the 2023 NFL Draft rolls around.

On top of the current issues, there could be a bunch of players leaving the organization when free agency kicks into high gear. Names like Tyson Alualu, Chris Wormely, and Larry Ogunjobi could all be in new uniforms or retired once this season concludes. This positional group could be a giant need for the black and gold come draft time.

Jalen Carter is the next big Georgia defensive lineman in the NFL

Jalen Carter is the top defensive lineman on most draft boards currently as Georgia continues to send out high-quality players. He fits the size and mold that the Steelers search for in their prospects in the defensive trenches. He would be a great selection and Pittsburgh is not too out of reach of the pick that would be required to choose a player of Carter’s stature.

Bryan Bresee has been connected to the Steelers in mock drafts

There is always a guy with a story when the draft rolls around and sadly this is not a happy one. Bryan Bresee lost his sister to brain cancer earlier this year after she fought the disease valiantly. Those terrible circumstances have fueled his already promising career to higher levels than many thought. Bresee is a great run stuffer that needs to develop more as a pass rusher at the next level. He could help stop the Steelers current issues against stopping the run.

Siaki Ika is a mammoth in the middle of the trenches

You do not have to look past Siaki Ika when you are searching for a player that will rise up draft boards as the draft process plays out. He is a giant human in the middle of the trenches that is a consistent disrupter that demands double teams. His pass rush is stronger than his run stuff ability, but both are not weaknesses to his game either. Ika could be a top pick in the draft if he is able to continue his growth and score well at the combine, which could peak the Steelers interest.

Honorable mentions for Steelers to watch out for

Gervon Dexter, DT, Florida

We have gotten to the prospect that brings a lot of differing opinions with him across draft grades. Some have him as high as the third or fourth best prospect in the draft, while others have him slightly lower. He is a strong and athletic freak that has some good ability that still needs some work moving forward.

Zacch Pickens, DT, South Carolina

Zacch Pickens is a former 5-star recruit that has spent his last four years at South Carolina. He is an athletic guy that has some great qualities that can be developed into something special at the next level. Pickens looks to be a project in the NFL that could turn out to be something special if he can put everything together.

Tyler Davis, DT, Clemson

Tyler Davis joins his fellow teammate Bresee on this list of being one of the top defensive linemen coming out of college this year. Davis has the physical tools that are great against his opponents, especially with his compact leverage. Injuries are the biggest concern with him as he was constantly hampered by them throughout his collegiate career.

The Steelers might be hunting for an interior defensive lineman in the 2023 NFL Draft. There are many talented prospects that could be options for this club when this event kicks off in spring.