It’s time for the Pittsburgh Steelers Sophomore Spotlight Series. During this series we’ll be taking a look at Pittsburgh’s second year players to determine their standing with the team, what their role might be in 2022-23, and how big of an impact they can have in year two.
Isaiahh Loudermilk: Defense End
2021-22 Season Review
The Pittsburgh Steelers selected Isaiahh Loudermilk in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft. Pittsburgh actually traded into the pick with a 2022 fourth round pick to get Loudermilk.
Isaiahh Loudermilk had a much bigger role in 2021 than anyone could have expected. Not only did he make the 53-man roster but he played 288 defensive snaps across 14 games. Loudermilk registered 23 tackles, three pass deflections and one sack in those games.
Isaiahh Loudermilk isn’t the best athlete which limits his pass rush upside. But he has the body type and strength to play the 3-4 defensive end and defend the run. Loudermilk got better as the season went along and became a more trusted player on run downs.
2022-23 Season Preview
Isaiahh Loudermilk should be on the 53-man roster again this season. He will be a rotational player amongst what is a talented defensive line when healthy.
Loudermilk should primarily play as a early-down, base defense defensive end where he can use his length and strength to play the run. When everyone on the defensive line is healthy, he is probably at the bottom of the list to play in their sub package alignments.
If Isaiahh Loudermilk can continue to get stronger and play with good technique, he might be able to become an adequate pass rusher with a bull rush. But he’ll likely never be above average in that department. Still, Loudermilk should be a helpful player for the Steelers in 2022-23.
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