Steelers Need Two Rookies to Reach Next Level

The Pittsburgh Steelers are looking for answers on both sides of the ball as they begin the second half of their regular-season schedule. Sitting atop the AFC North with a 5-4 record, there is an overwhelming sense of dread as their lead has shrunk over the past few weeks.

While the Steelers have multiple problems to resolve before that confidence can return, one issue that sits at the top of the priority list is getting their rookie defensive tackles to the next level. First-round pick Derrick Harmon and fifth-round selection Yahya Black are two of the most promising young players on their roster. Their performance has come with ups and downs, as all rookies will, but the Steelers are banking on both players becoming even more important contributors as the stretch run of their season begins.

Pass Game Presence

The key area where both need to improve is becoming more of a disruptive force on passing plays. The team’s secondary is already one of the worse performing groups in the NFL this season, and the only way to help them at this point is by having their defensive line and pass rush become more effective.

That’s where Harmon and Black both come in. During his first few weeks, Harmon showed that ability to get after the quarterback, recording two sacks in his first three contests. Since then, however, he hasn't recorded a sack and has only created three quarterback hurries over the past three weeks.