Steelers Senior Bowl Takeaways: Mike Tomlin Clearly Signals Draft Intentions.
The Pittsburgh Steelers, along with all 31 NFL teams, had representatives at the 2025 Senior Bowl, but they arguably had the most significant presence. Head coach Mike Tomlin, general manager Omar Khan, defensive coordinator Teryl Austin, offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, and several other key personnel were in attendance.
So, what were the standout moments from the first day of practice? Here are some of my observations on the early success of the event.
- It’s clear the Steelers are heavily focused on the defensive line, and many of the players they’re eyeing weren’t even in Mobile. Tomlin, Austin, and Khan were all zeroed in on the defensive linemen, so it’s safe to say that’s where the Steelers are likely looking early in the draft. Defensive line has become a priority in recent years for Pittsburgh. In 2021, they targeted running backs; in 2022, quarterbacks; and in 2023 and 2024, they focused on the offensive line. Defensive line is clearly high on their list this year.
- Deone Walker looks like a player who fits the Steelers’ mold, but the more you watch, the less it makes sense. His Kentucky tape shows flashes, but he plays too high and struggles to maintain control in the run game. His motor can be inconsistent, and while he’s an impressive physical specimen at 6-foot-7, 340 pounds, his fit as a replacement for Cam Heyward or a nose tackle isn’t ideal. South Carolina’s T.J. Sanders had a standout day, showing potential as a pass-rushing five-technique or three-technique, making him a more natural fit for Pittsburgh. In short, I’m not sold on Walker.
- Regarding other defensive linemen, Walter Nolen has potential as a three-technique with a strong pass-rushing ability, but his run-stopping abilities leave a lot to be desired. He had some struggles against the run, and while Tomlin spent considerable time talking with him, Nolen seems more like a situational player for the Steelers. Toledo’s Darius Alexander and Virginia Tech’s Aeneas Peebles also had strong performances. Peebles even caught Tomlin’s eye and could be a potential target in the third or fourth round.
- Tomlin was seen chatting with Michigan defensive line coach Lou Esposito, which is worth noting. Esposito coached likely first-rounder Kenneth Grant, who fits the Steelers’ prototype as a high-upside player in both the run and pass game. Though Grant wasn’t in Mobile, he could be an option at pick 21.
- The wide receiver group underwhelmed overall, but TCU’s Jack Bech stood out. He’s a fantastic blocker and, as a former tight end, offers more wiggle than expected. He could function as a big slot receiver or an outside threat, with underrated route running and separation for his size. He could be a good fit for the Steelers. Additionally, Maryland’s Tai Felton has great speed (likely in the 4.4s) and is an excellent deep-ball tracker—another solid target for Pittsburgh’s pass-heavy attack.
- The running back class is loaded this year, but from conversations in Mobile, it seems the Steelers are prioritizing speed. UCF’s R.J. Harvey fits that mold with his quick acceleration and short-area burst. Virginia Tech’s Bhayshul Tuten brings explosive zone-running ability with breakaway speed. Kansas’ Devin Neal is a versatile, three-down back, comparable to Jaylen Warren, and could be a strong fit for Pittsburgh’s scheme.
- The cornerbacks were impressive on Tuesday. Louisville’s Quincy Riley had multiple strong man coverage reps, and Florida State’s Azareye’h Thomas, though shaky at first, rebounded well. I still have concerns about his eye discipline, though.
- Kentucky’s Maxwell Hairston stood out as the best defensive back on display. He’s fluid, has great vision, and excellent ball awareness. He could be a mid-round gem for the Steelers, as he fits their typical defensive back profile. Virginia Tech’s Dorian Strong and Kansas State’s Jacob Parrish also had solid showings.
- It was a rough day for the quarterbacks. Jaxon Dart had an up-and-down performance but was likely the best of the group, while Jalen Milroe was wildly inaccurate. Notre Dame’s Riley Leonard struggled to push the ball outside the numbers. The most intriguing quarterback might have been Louisville’s Tyler Shough, who showcased mobility and the ability to change arm angles. I see him as a solid mid-round option.
