7 former Steelers draft picks in danger of missing the 53-man roster

Steelers may move on from Isaiahh Loudermilk

I remember being absolutely shocked when the Steelers traded up on day three of the draft to take Isaiahh Loudermilk. While he has the ideal size this team looks for in a defensive end, his play was lackluster in school, serving primarily as a run defender and lacking the skills of a pass rusher. He was also a marginal athlete and was an undrafted free agent target in my opinion.

Loudermilk has proven to be a mediocre pro as well. While he has flashed at times, he seems to be close to his ceiling in terms of what he can provide this team, I’m not sure it will justify keeping him around for another year. He offers you nothing as a pass rusher, and his run defense is only average.

The Steelers added quite a few names to the defensive line this offseason. While only one of those new names, Keeanu Benton is a lock to make the team, Loudermilk is now fighting for his job. It seems like DeMarvin Leal is going to get more defensive line work as well this year, meaning that the room has even fewer spots to offer up.

It may come down to a competition between him and Armon Watts as to who will secure the last spot on the roster. Watts is a better pass rusher and can play nose tackle if need be, so I give him the initial edge for the team. That said it will surely be a battle during camp. I’m just not sure Loudermilk offers enough to keep his spot on the roster.