Steelers' Coach Drops Bombshell: "If Our First-Round Pick Was Playing, That Win Would’ve Been a Breeze!"

Steelers' Coach Drops Bombshell: "If Our First-Round Pick Was Playing, That Win Would’ve Been a Breeze!"

Pittsburgh, PA — September 12, 2025 — The Pittsburgh Steelers barely scraped by with a 34–32 victory against the New York Jets in Week 1, but head coach Mike Tomlin believes the game would’ve been far easier if their 2025 first-round pick had been on the field. The absence of this highly-touted rookie defensive tackle left the Steelers’ run defense vulnerable, exposing cracks that nearly cost them the game.

The first-round pick, sidelined by an MCL sprain from the preseason finale against the Carolina Panthers on August 21, missed the season opener. Fortunately, the Steelers’ decision to keep him off the injured reserve list is paying off, with a potential return as early as Week 3 against the New England Patriots. His absence in Week 1 was glaring, as the Jets racked up 182 rushing yards and two touchdowns, averaging 4.7 yards per carry.

Tomlin didn’t hold back when discussing the rookie’s impact. “If he was in the lineup, that win would’ve been a breeze. His skillset is exactly what we need to lock down the run game,” Tomlin told reporters. Standing at 6-foot-4 and 315 pounds, the first-round pick brings a rare blend of size, strength, and leverage, capable of clogging lanes and collapsing pockets.

Without Derrick Harmon, the Steelers leaned on Isaiahh Loudermilk and Yahya Black to fill the void in the defensive line. Despite their effort, neither could replicate the disruptive presence the rookie was drafted to provide. The team’s front office is banking on his return to shore up a run defense that struggled in Week 1 and faces a gauntlet of run-heavy opponents in the coming weeks.

While the rookie won’t suit up for Week 2 against the Seattle Seahawks, Tomlin remains optimistic about his availability for Week 3. His return could transform the Steelers’ defense, allowing linebackers to attack downhill and restoring the physicality that defines Pittsburgh’s identity. With the AFC race heating up, the first-round pick’s comeback could turn a shaky run defense into a dominant force.