Pittsburgh Steelers Could Be Forced To Lean On 4th Round Rookie Due To Injuries

The Pittsburgh Steelers’ depth at outside linebacker is being tested early this preseason. With Alex Highsmith nursing a lingering groin injury and backup Nick Herbig also sidelined with a soft tissue issue, rookie Jack Sawyer may need to step up quicker than anticipated. The fourth-round pick out of Ohio State has displayed flashes of potential but also revealed areas for growth as he navigates the leap to the NFL.

Pittsburgh Steelers Jack Sawyer: Getting An Opportunity

Highsmith’s groin injury has understandably raised concerns within the Pittsburgh Steelers organization. Head coach Mike Tomlin has been cautious in assigning timelines, but soft tissue injuries are notoriously tricky, with recovery that can vary from days to weeks. While Highsmith remains a critical component of Pittsburgh’s pass rush, his absence, coupled with Herbig’s injury, leaves the Steelers thin at a crucial position. Enter Jack Sawyer, who now faces an opportunity to carve out meaningful reps during the preseason and, potentially, the regular season.

Sawyer has all the physical tools that made him a fan favorite during the 2025 NFL Draft. His 6-foot-5, 260-pound frame and relentless motor have coaches intrigued about his ceiling. However, as with most rookies, the transition from college to professional football has not been without challenges.

Preseason Performance Shows Promise and Growing Pains

Sawyer’s preseason tape has been a mixed bag so far. NFL Draft analyst Jon Ledyard captured this sentiment perfectly, tweeting after the Steelers’ 17-14 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, “The difference between Herbig off the ball and Sawyer off the ball is like watching a different sport. Steelers better pray Herbig and Highsmith are good to go Week 1.”

While this critique highlights Sawyer’s struggles with recognition and disengaging from blocks, it’s important to keep in mind that he’s still adapting to the complexities of an NFL defense.

Sawyer recorded just one tackle against the Buccaneers, but stats don’t tell the whole story. Even in limited action, he showed glimpses of his potential. His strength and motor allowed him to pressure the pocket at times, even if the consistency wasn’t always there. The rookie’s effort on every snap is evident, and his ability to improve will rely on sharpening his technique and decision-making in the weeks ahead.

Challenges Transitioning to the NFL

One of Sawyer’s biggest hurdles has been adjusting to the speed and complexity of NFL offenses. At Ohio State, his sheer athleticism often allowed him to overpower opponents, but in the NFL, offensive tackles are more skilled and quicker to neutralize a pass rush.

Another area that needs improvement is his ability to diagnose run plays and shed blocks effectively. This deficiency was apparent against the Buccaneers, where he appeared a step behind in run defense on multiple occasions. These are teachable moments, however, and with guidance from the coaching staff, Sawyer has the tools to address these gaps.

Despite the growing pains, Sawyer’s raw talent and versatility make him a key player to watch. Pittsburgh’s defensive scheme places significant emphasis on outside linebacker depth to maintain relentless pressure on quarterbacks. With Highsmith and Herbig sidelined, Sawyer could see invaluable snaps to accelerate his development.

The Opportunity Ahead

This next stretch of preseason games represents a pivotal time for Sawyer. With both injuries and roster evaluation in play, he stands to benefit from increased exposure against NFL-caliber competition. The Steelers have a proven track record of developing edge rushers under Tomlin’s tenure, and Sawyer has a chance to tap into that system if he can capitalize on his opportunities.

Sawyer’s ability to adapt quickly and improve on specific aspects of his game will determine whether he can build the trust of the coaching staff. His physical traits—size, strength, and an innate drive to compete—aren’t in question, but his ability to execute consistently at the pro level needs refinement.

Final Thoughts

Jack Sawyer’s NFL career is in its infancy, but the potential is evident, even if the results haven’t fully materialized just yet. Injuries to key players like Alex Highsmith may force the Steelers to lean on Sawyer sooner than expected. While the rookie’s preseason performances have been uneven, this is the kind of trial by fire that can fast-track development.

Whether Sawyer can rise to the occasion and make the most of this opportunity remains to be seen. What’s clear is that Pittsburgh is banking on its next man up, and Sawyer has all the tools to deliver if he can put it together.