The Steelers have leaned on their defensive rookie class this year, especially Derrick Harmon, but Jack Sawyer was important Sunday. So, too, is Yahya Black, their third draft pick in the first five rounds, addressing the front seven. All three played a significant role in the Steelers’ win over the Lions and have been important throughout the season.
“It’s been needed, particularly up front”, HC Mike Tomlin said of the contributions of Harmon, Sawyer, and Black, via the Steelers’ website. “We’ve absorbed a lot of attrition during the course of this thing. Dean Lowry, Dan [Daniel Ekuale], [Isaiahh] Loudermilk.