The retirement of Pro Bowl-caliber defensive end Stephon Tuitt opened up a sizable hole within the Steelers’ defensive front, a hole that won’t easily be plugged anytime soon.
Second-year defensive end Isaiahh Loudermilk, and veteran Chris Wormley will attempt to fill the void, at least in 2022. However, one player the could emerge right away and grab a significant role within the Steelers’ vaunted defense is rookie third-round draft pick DeMarvin Leal.
Leal, who recorded 25 tackles for loss and 13 sacks in 33 career games at Texas A&M, was highlighted as the Steelers’ Non-Day 1 rookie that could earn a key role right away, especially in light of the Tuitt news, by CBS Sports’ Chris Trapasso.