The Pittsburgh Steelers made a somewhat surprising pick in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL draft, with the team taking Ohio State edge rusher Jack Sawyer at No. 123 overall.
The pick is surprising because the Steelers didn't have a big need along the edge with a trio of T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig in the fold. Of course, trade speculation has swirling around Watt this offseason, but it remains highly unlikely the Steelers will move him and we expect an extension soon.
Sawyer was a fantastic leader for the Buckeyes over his time with the program. He is a plus run defender already, but needs some refinement as a pass-rusher. Sawyer did show improvement over the last three years when rushing the passer, though, with his pressures going from 22 to 37 to 64 in that span.
Sawyer, who tallied a personal best nine sacks last season and 23 overall during his collegiate career, will get a full year to develop while he serves as a depth piece behind Watt, Highsmith and Herbig.
Related: Live grades and analysis for each Steelers Day 3 pick
Here's a look at how experts graded the pick.
Jack Sawyer NFL draft grades
Trapasso: "Classic Steelers pick. Sawyer isn't a premier athlete by any stretch, and there are too many instances when he's driven off the ball, yet he gets the most out of every ounce of his athleticism because of quality hand work and non-stop hustle. Glimmers of bend around the corner, and he works hard to set a sturdy edge vs. the run. Logical EDGE depth in Pittsburgh."
Ostly: "Sawyer was one of the key contributors to Ohio State's national-championship winning defense. He did not measure in a as well as expected so that's why he dropped from a likely second-round pick to Round 4. Despite his short arms, his activity and strength make him at least a rotational piece."
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