Steelers Set to Host SEC Edge Rusher This Week for Pre-Draft Visit

The Pittsburgh Steelers have re-tooled their defense a bit this offseason and will continue to do so through camp.

While general manager Omar Khan and the team are prepping for the NFL Draft later this month, and on Monday, Draft Network's Ryan Fowler reported the Steelers are hosting an elite SEC pass rusher.

Texas A&M Aggies pass rusher Shemar Stewart will be the first pass rusher to visit Khan and the Steelers for a pre-draft visit this offseason.

Stewart is expected to be a first-round pick this year, but depending on who you talk to, he could go early, or he could go late. Pittsburgh picks at No. 21.

Why would the Steelers potentially take a pass rusher at No. 21 when they already employ names like, T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig?

Stewart's college numbers don't jump off the page. But his athleticism isn't matched by many. His NFL Combine numbers impressed everyone. Running a 4.59 40-yard dash and putting up a 40-inch vertical jump, Stewart displayed why many consider him one of the most athletic players at the position.

In Stewart's draft profile, NFL.com's Lance Zierlein cited his explosiveness and rare traits.

"Stewart is carved from granite, possessing a rare blend of traits, explosiveness and untapped upside. He's long and sudden off the snap but hasn't learned to weaponize his hands to control the point of attack and bypass protection with go-to moves. His bull rush compresses the pocket off the edge, and he's too athletic for guards when reduced inside. He can be very disruptive in both phases but requires additional training to start converting his opportunities into finishes.

"The lack of production relative to the traits is a concern; still, players who move like him are highly coveted. While the boom-or-bust label might be in play, it feels like a matter of time before it all starts to click at a high level."