Rookie Yahya Black Surging for Steelers, Eyes Big Role Along a Deep Defensive Front
Pittsburgh is showing a noticeable shift in how it handles its young talent in 2025. While veteran considerations have often guided Tomlin’s early-season decisions, the rookie class is making a strong push for meaningful snaps. Derrick Harmon, the Steelers’ first-round pick, has already secured a starting role along the defensive line and has seen plenty of duty in the preseason. Kaleb Johnson and Jack Sawyer also appear on a path toward real play time, signaling a potential shift in how quickly Pittsburgh trusts its young players.
The most surprising development, though, is fifth-round pick Yahya Black climbing the depth chart faster than many expected. Through two preseason games, Black has been out there early and often, flanking Harmon and Keeanu Benton along the defensive front. He isn’t a stats-heavy disruptor, but his value comes from being a true run-stuffer and anchor in the middle of the line.
The Steelers have long needed a steady interior presence in the trenches. Cam Heyward has been one of the league’s best at stopping the run, but he can’t do it alone. Black’s emergence promises to supplement the interior rotation, with veterans Isaiahh Loudermilk and Daniel Ekuale also in the mix. Black’s ability to line up all over the line adds another layer of versatility to a defensive front that figures to be deep and flexible this season.
The Iowa product brings size and strength to the role, and his willingness to line up from multiple positions gives the Steelers a hedge against injuries and mismatches. While he’s not expected to flash big tackle or sack numbers, Black’s run-stopping presence could be a stabilizing force as Pittsburgh looks to improve against the league’s toughest rushing attacks.
What this could mean going forward is a more dynamic rotation up front, with Harmon as a constant and Black, along with Loudermilk and Ekuale, contributing in varying packages to clog lanes and free up linebackers and edge rushers. If Black’s early progression continues, Pittsburgh could enjoy a stronger, more capable front that supports its entire defense.
Comments and added context:
– The early trust shown in Harmon and Black signals that the Steelers may accelerate development timelines for their 2025 rookies, especially those who bring dark-horse value in the trenches.
– Black’s versatility is particularly valuable in a league that favors interchangeable fronts and adaptive run-stopping schemes.
– The combination of a larger, stable interior and a healthy mix of veteran leadership around him could help the Steelers better handle multiple rushing schemes this season.
Short takeaway: Yahya Black’s rapid rise is a standout storyline from the Steelers’ preseason, and if his development continues, he could be a pivotal piece of a deeper, more adaptable defensive line.