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Fittipaldo: DE DeMarvin Leal Seemed In ‘Better Shape’ At Spring Practices, Could Be ‘Bigger Contributor’ This Season

Related Topics: DeMarvin Leal, Cam Heyward

The Pittsburgh Steelers have a depth problem along the defensive line, but it isn’t for a lack of trying. Dating back to when they selected Cameron Heyward in the first round of the 2011 NFL Draft, they have selected at least one defensive lineman in every class except for 2017. Most of those have been late-round selections—which is part of the problem—but they have largely failed to develop many of those players into solid contributors. In 2022, DeMarvin Leal became the first day one or two pick along the defensive line since 2016, and his lack of development has put the team in a tough spot for the future of the position.