Michael Hall Jr. Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK

Steelers HC Mike Tomlin 'locked in' on disruptive D-lineman at Senior Bowl

By Aaron Becker | Last updated 2/1/24

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin continues to be arguably the most involved NFL head coach at the Senior Bowl, and he has not been shy in showing his interest in one of the most explosive players in Mobile, Alabama.

According to The Athletic's Dan Brugler, Tomlin was reportedly "locked in" on the defensive line drills on Wednesday. Specifically, Tomlin was focused on Ohio State DT Michael Hall Jr.

Brugler praised the 6-foot-2, 280-pound defensive lineman, highlighting his quickness and calling him "disruptive." He certainly showcased that against Oregon C Jackson Powers-Johnson, who is flying up draft boards.

THIS is what makes Mobile so unique. Good on good. Best bump possible.

Jackson Powers-Johnson & Michael Hall pic.twitter.com/JWtHwMAx9r
— Ryan Fowler (@_RyanFowler_) January 31, 2024

However, Hall Jr. is still only ranked as Pro Football Focus' 13th-best interior defensive lineman and the No. 116 overall prospect on its big board.

That's good news for Pittsburgh, as of now, if it hopes to draft him at the end of April. Of course, a lot can change between now and then, but Hall Jr.'s current ranking projects him to be a fourth-round pick, which the Steelers have two of.

It would be a good idea for Pittsburgh to add to its aging defensive line. DT Cameron Heyward contemplated retirement following the end of 2023 but has since decided to return. The soon-to-be 35-year-old may choose differently at the end of next season.

That's why adding the 20-year-old, who has posted 43 tackles and six sacks from 2022-23, would be a great idea. The Steelers could get a key piece to their defensive line at the cheap price of a day three draft pick.

Tomlin will surely stay involved in the Senior Bowl practices the rest of the week, searching for hidden gems in the 2024 NFL Draft. But it seems he may have found one in Hall Jr. early in the offseason.

The 2024 Senior Bowl kicks off at 1 p.m. ET on Feb. 3.

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