Behind the Steel Curtain
Is a breakout season incoming for the fifth-year Steeler?
When the Steelers drafted Oregon DT Derrick Harmon with the 20th overall pick it signaled the team didn’t have much faith in giving meaningful snaps to fifth-year DL Isaiahh Loudermilk. After the departure of former starter Larry Ogunjobi to the Buffalo Bills, the Steelers had a clear need for youth in an aging defensive front. It’s safe to assume Harmon will get most of the first team reps in OTAs and training camp, but according to one Steelers insider, Loudermilk isn’t going down without a fight.
“The Steelers’ best defensive lineman at OTAs in the parts of practice we’re allowed to talk about has been Isaiahh Loudermilk,” Jeff Hathhorn of 93.7 The Fan said.
For clarity, certain aspects of camp aren’t allowed for the media to disclose publicly, but we can generally get a good feel for who the standouts are based on chatter like this.
In his four years with the Steelers, Loudermilk has started just five games. He’s registered 63 tackles, 1 sack, and six passes defended in those contests.
If he does make a seismic leap, Loudermilk could allow the Steelers to transition to Harmon at a slower pace, or the very least, provide stability behind Cam Heyward so he can catch his breath with a defensive series off here and there.
It’s worth noting the team also drafted Iowa DT Yahya Black in the fifth round, adding more competition and depth to a position that desperately needed it.
What are your thoughts on a potential breakout season from Loudermilk? Let us know in the comments section!
