Analysts Albert Breer and Connor Orr believe the Pittsburgh Steelers should consider selecting an edge rusher in the first round of the NFL draft. They cite T.J. Watt's age and recent performance dip as reasons to build depth. However, the team already boasts a strong group of pass rushers.
Connor Orr suggested on Sports Illustrated’s YouTube channel that the Steelers target Clemson’s T.J. Parker to maintain their defensive identity. “I do wonder if they try to keep the complexion of the defense the same way, and that’s why I like T.J. Parker,” Orr said. He added, “T.J. Watt, getting a little long in the tooth,” referring to the star's age past 30 and 18.5 sacks over the last two seasons, down from his league-leading totals earlier in his career. Watt turns 32 this year and has battled injuries recently. Albert Breer echoed the view, noting conversations with other teams. “I’ve talked to enough teams over the last few months that have said to me, ‘When we play the Steelers, we’re more worried about Alex Highsmith than we are T.J. Watt,’” Breer said. He highlighted Watt's high contract cost and the need for younger talent, pointing out Highsmith is 28. Breer praised Watt as a likely Hall of Famer but advocated for pipeline development. The Steelers pair Watt with Alex Highsmith, Nick Herbig and Jack Sawyer, forming one of the league's top edge groups. Parker recorded 21.5 sacks and 41.5 tackles for loss at Clemson but managed only five sacks in 2025 after 11 the prior year. Pittsburgh aims to contend for a Super Bowl this season and has needs at wide receiver and guard where a rookie could contribute immediately. Watt drew heavy attention last season, often facing chips and double-teams, which aided teammates.
