Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin has a tendency to give veterans the benefit of the doubt over rookies early in the season, even if the rookies are clearly more talented. Joey Porter Jr. had to wait until midway through his rookie season to see starting snaps. Dan Moore Jr. forced Broderick Jones to switch from left tackle to right tackle, possibly contributing to his disappointing career so far.
Despite that track record, things seem to be a little different in 2025. First-round pick Derrick Harmon has already been named a starter along the defensive line, and he has gotten plenty of snaps through two preseason games to prepare for the opportunity. Other rookies, like Kaleb Johnson and Jack Sawyer, also look like they may have a chance to earn a real role at their respective positions.
The more surprising development, however, is how high fifth-round rookie Yahya Black has seemingly climbed up the depth chart this preseason.
Pittsburgh Steelers' Mike Tomlin showing unusual faith in rookie Yahya Black
So far through two preseason games, Black has been out there early and often next to Harmon and Keeanu Benton along the defensive front. He hasn't stood statistically, but he isn't the kind of player who is expected to rack up big tackle or sack numbers. He is a run-stuffer through and through, with the size and strength to clog up rushing lanes.
The Steelers have desperately needed a player like that in the trenches for years now. Cam Heyward is one of the best interior run defenders in the NFL, but he can't be the only good one if the Steelers want to compete against the top rushing attacks in the league.
That is a big reason why Black looks like he will be one of the first guys off the bench, even with his draft status. Veterans Isaiahh Loudermilk and Daniel Ekuale will have roles as well, but neither offers what Black does as a true anchor in the middle of the defense.
The Iowa product has also shown the ability to line up all over the line, something that I wouldn't have expected him to be do with his lack of athleticism. Despite his limitations, he looks primed to be one of the more impactful players on a deep and talented Steelers' defensive front.