The Pittsburgh Steelers used their 2021 fifth-round pick that they acquired from the Miami Dolphins on defensive lineman Isaiahh Loudermilk. He’s spent his entire NFL career in Pittsburgh, and that won’t be changing for the current free agent.
Loudermilk is now going to be returning to the Steelers on a one-year deal, according to NFL insider Jeremy Fowler. Loudermilk has been a solid depth piece on the Steelers’ defensive line, providing valuable snaps when called upon. While he hasn’t taken on a starting role, his size and physical presence have made him a useful rotational player, particularly against the run. The Steelers have trusted his development, and his return gives them continuity in a unit that’s seen some change this offseason. However, this move is a bit surprising as many Steelers fans weren't that fond of his play when given the chance.
With Larry Ogunjobi no longer in the picture, Loudermilk’s role could grow even larger in 2025. He will join Cameron Heyward and Keeanu Benton as part of a defensive line rotation that Pittsburgh hopes will remain one of the most physical in the NFL. This one-year deal is another opportunity for Loudermilk to prove he can take on more responsibility and continue to be a reliable contributor in the trenches.
The reaction from many Steelers fans to the news of Loudermilk’s return on a one-year deal for 2025 was laughable to them. Plenty of fans have questioned why the team continues to invest in a player who hasn’t been a major impact piece on the defensive line. In their eyes, Loudermilk has been just another body in the rotation, not someone who moves the needle for a defense that should be striving for dominance.
The numbers from the 2024 season don’t do much to change that perception. Loudermilk played 222 snaps and recorded just six pressures, hardly eye-popping production. According to Pro Football Focus, he finished the season with a 55.9 overall grade, ranking 112th out of 219 defensive linemen graded at the position. For fans looking at pure performance metrics, it’s easy to understand why his return raised some eyebrows.
Steelers Clearly Have More Trust In Isaiahh Loudermilk Than Fans Do
The Steelers organization values stability, scheme knowledge, and the ability to fill gaps without being a liability. Loudermilk might not light up the stat sheet, but the Steelers clearly trust his role as a reliable rotational player who knows the system and can contribute in spot duty. While fans may scoff, Pittsburgh continues to show they prioritize depth and familiarity in the trenches.
The Steelers defense in 2024 failed to meet the high expectations set for them. Despite a strong start, they struggled as the competition intensified throughout the season. This disappointing performance has left many fans frustrated. The decision to bring back Loudermilk has raised some eyebrows, with many fans questioning the move, as the reasoning behind it remains unclear. However, Steelers fans are hopeful that Loudermilk will prove the majority wrong and deliver a standout performance in 2025 if given the opportunity.
