Young Players in Pittsburgh Steelers Front Seven Already Making an Impact

September 25, 2015   ·   Andrea Hangst   ·   Jump to comments

In the not-so-long-ago, it would typically take a young Pittsburgh Steelers defender—particularly a member of the front seven—to take two years or more to crack the starting lineup or see a lion's share of defensive snaps. But not anymore.
A combination of roster gaps and the departure of longstanding defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau have forced the Steelers into a change of philosophy. Now, three key members of the Steelers front seven are first- or second-year players. And though there is room for improvement out of all three, these less-experienced players are more than holding their own so far.
The trio are defensive end Stephon Tuitt, inside linebacker Ryan Shazier and outside linebacker Bud Dupree. Tuitt is a starter taking over for the retired Brett Keisel and is a 2014 Round 2 pick. Shazier was the Steelers' Round 1 draft pick in 2014, while Dupree is a rookie and also has a Round 1 draft pedigree.
Presently, Shazier is the Steelers' leading tackler,...

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