Steelers Roster Changes: How Brandon Johnson Fits Into Pittsburgh’s Evolving Depth Chart

The Pittsburgh Steelers have always prioritized defensive line depth, and the 2024 offseason roster changes reflect that commitment. Among the new additions is Brandon Johnson, a 6-foot-4, 280-pound defensive end from the University of Toledo. His arrival signals both a strategic move to bolster Pittsburgh’s front seven and a calculated risk on a player with untapped potential.

Johnson’s selection in the seventh round of the 2024 NFL Draft (pick 240 overall) raised eyebrows in some corners, but his tape and combine numbers suggest a player capable of contributing early. The Steelers, known for their patient development of young talent, may see him as a project with high upside. For a team that finished 14th in sacks last season, every piece of the puzzle matters.

Johnson’s Background and Why Pittsburgh Drafted Him

Brandon Johnson’s collegiate career at Toledo spanned four seasons, during which he accumulated 102 tackles, 20.5 tackles for loss, and 12 sacks. His best statistical season came in 2023, when he posted 48 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, and 5.5 sacks. What makes Johnson particularly intriguing is his blend of size, athleticism, and motor.

The Steelers’ defensive coaching staff under Teryl Austin has emphasized versatility along the defensive line. Johnson’s ability to play both defensive end in a 4-3 alignment and as a five-technique in sub-packages aligns with Pittsburgh’s defensive scheme. His 32-inch arms and 9-foot-8-inch wingspan provide the length coaches covet when setting the edge against the run.

In an NFL where edge rushers are increasingly valuable, Johnson’s developmental curve could make him a diamond in the rough. The Steelers have historically excelled at identifying and developing late-round defensive linemen, and Johnson may be next in that lineage.

Roster Changes That Set the Stage for Johnson’s Opportunity

Pittsburgh’s 2024 offseason was defined by calculated departures and targeted additions. The Steelers allowed Cameron Heyward to leave in free agency, creating a void at defensive tackle that they filled with the signing of Larry Ogunjobi. On the edge, Pittsburgh retained T.J. Watt but lost Arthur Maulet and DeMarvin Leal via free agency. These departures opened doors for younger players like Johnson to step into larger roles.

The Steelers also drafted three defensive linemen in 2024: Johnson, Keeanu Benton (a third-round tackle), and E.J. Banks (a seventh-round end). This influx of talent underscores Pittsburgh’s commitment to reloading its defensive front. For a team that ranked 25th in rushing defense in 2023, stopping the run remains a priority—and Johnson’s presence could help address that need.

In addition to the draft, the Steelers signed veteran defensive end Montravius Adams to a one-year deal. Adams brings experience and a high motor, which could push Johnson to elevate his game in training camp. Competition for snaps is always healthy, and Johnson will need to prove he belongs in the rotation early.

Key Departures Creating Space for New Faces

The Steelers’ roster turnover extended beyond starters to rotational players. Departures included:

• DeMarvin Leal (defensive end, signed with Chargers)
• Isaiahh Loudermilk (defensive tackle, signed with Seahawks)
• Montravius Adams (defensive end, re-signed with Steelers but left again in free agency before returning)
• Jonathan Marshall (defensive tackle, signed with Jets)

These departures created opportunities for rookies and younger players to step into meaningful roles. Johnson’s path to playing time may hinge on his ability to outperform players like Breiden Fehoko and Montravius Adams in camp. The Steelers’ emphasis on youth and athleticism suggests Johnson could earn a role sooner rather than later.

What Johnson Brings to Pittsburgh’s Defensive Scheme

Brandon Johnson’s skill set aligns with the Steelers’ defensive philosophy under Teryl Austin, who prioritizes disruptive linemen capable of occupying blockers. Johnson’s strengths include:

1. Length and Leverage: His 6-foot-4 frame and long arms allow him to keep offensive linemen at bay, making him effective in one-on-one matchups.
2. Athleticism: Johnson ran a 4.73-second 40-yard dash at the combine, which is impressive for his size. This burst enables him to collapse the pocket and chase down ball carriers.
3. Motor: Johnson’s hustle and pursuit angles were evident in Toledo’s defensive schemes. He consistently worked to the ball, a trait coaches value highly.
4. Versatility: He can play defensive end in a 4-3 alignment or slide inside as a tackle in passing situations, adding depth to Pittsburgh’s front.

However, Johnson is not without limitations. He lacks the polish of a high-round prospect and must refine his pass-rush moves. His 2023 season included 5.5 sacks, but he also had 40 quarterback hurries and knockdowns, indicating untapped potential. If he can convert those pressures into sacks, his role could expand quickly.

Comparing Johnson to Recent Steelers Draft Picks

To contextualize Johnson’s potential, it’s worth comparing him to recent Steelers draft picks who entered the league with similar expectations. Players like Isaiahh Loudermilk (2021, fifth round) and George Karlaftis (2023, first round) arrived with hype but took time to acclimate. Johnson’s path may mirror theirs, albeit with less immediate pressure.

What sets Johnson apart is his developmental timeline. The Steelers have historically been patient with defensive linemen, allowing them to grow into their roles. For example, Larry Ogunjobi, signed in 2024, took time to find his footing in Pittsburgh after bouncing between teams in his early career. Johnson could benefit from the same environment.

Another point of comparison is Alex Highsmith, a third-round pick in 2020 who became a full-time starter by his third season. Highsmith’s rise was fueled by his relentless motor and adaptability. Johnson may not reach that level immediately, but his traits suggest he could carve out a rotational role early.

What’s Next for Johnson and the Steelers

Brandon Johnson’s rookie season will likely be defined by development and situational opportunities. The Steelers’ defensive line is deep, with established starters like T.J. Watt and Larry Ogunjobi, but injuries or underperformance could accelerate Johnson’s timeline. His ability to contribute on special teams could also help him secure a roster spot early.

In training camp, Johnson will compete with players like Breiden Fehoko, E.J. Banks, and Montravius Adams for snaps. The Steelers’ coaching staff will evaluate his pass-rush repertoire, run-stopping ability, and consistency. If he flashes in preseason games, he could earn a role in sub-packages or as a situational pass rusher.

Long-term, Johnson’s ceiling is tied to his development. If he can refine his technique and add weight to his frame, he could become a reliable rotational player. The Steelers’ history of developing defensive linemen suggests Johnson has a pathway to meaningful contributions, even if it’s not immediate.

For fans, Johnson represents another piece of Pittsburgh’s defensive rebuild. His journey from Toledo to Pittsburgh is a reminder that talent can come from unexpected places. As the Steelers continue to build a competitive roster, Johnson’s progress will be one to watch closely.

As the 2024 season approaches, the Steelers’ depth chart is taking shape. Johnson’s role may start small, but his potential is undeniable. If he lives up to the hype, he could become another late-round success story in Pittsburgh’s long history of defensive line development.