Steelers Roster Projection: Who is going to make the final cut in 2023?
By Cory Rogers
Steelers roster projections: Defense (26)
Defensive Linemen (7): Larry Ogunjobi, Keeanu Benton, Cam Heyward, DeMarvin Leal, Isaiahh Loudermilk, Breiden Fehoko, Armon Watts
Arguably one of the toughest positions to cut, as the Steelers have built up the trenches here. Of course, Heyward and Ogunjobi are locks to start, and I believe the coaching staff remains high on the likes of DeMarvin Leal and Isaiahh Loudermilk.
Benton, a rookie defensive tackle, sure looks like he could be the starter at the nose. He's had a terrific pre-season and his play boots returning starter Montravius Adams off the 53-man roster in this scenario.
Fehoko is the type of nose tackle the Steelers love to play on run downs as well, so I think he makes the squad for short-yardage situations. And the last of the seven spots goes to Watts, due to his ability to play inside or outside on the defensive line.
The Steelers usually keep more than seven defensive linemen, so Adams would be the eighth if they decide to go that route. However, I'm not sure it's necessary to keep three nose tackles when you consider Defensive Coordinator Terryl Austin doesn't play his base defense half the time.