Perhaps one of the most intriguing players on the Steelers’ roster is their seventh-round pick from last year out of Iowa, Logan Lee.
Though Lee spent much of the offseason on injured reserve, one should expect him to be much more active in 2025. With this in mind, where would he fit on the Steelers’ defensive line?
The first thing to note is his frame: 6’5", 286 lbs. Lee is long, lean, and explosive—the type of build that would make him more suitable for a 5-technique defensive end or edge rusher. The biggest question mark is whether he can add value on the interior, where the team is in dire need of younger, stronger bodies.
During his time with the Hawkeyes, Lee was primarily a 1-technique to 3-technique defender. In 2023, Lee took 346 run defensive snaps, which was relatively close to the number of pass rush snaps he took that year (401). Yet, one of the biggest concerns was his pad level. Though greatly improved from his sophomore year, it was still an issue as he often had trouble anchoring against opposing linemen in run situations. As a pass rusher, Lee possessed a healthy arsenal of moves and counters that complemented his athleticism. All in all, this aspect was his true strength.
In many ways, Lee is in the same boat as fellow defensive tackle DeMarvin Leal. Both are excellent pass rushers whose value as run stoppers is questionable due to their frame. With the Steelers prioritizing this offseason in finding capable interior defenders who can stop the run with consistency, it would be fair to ask if Lee is better suited to playing a similar role as veteran Preston Smith, that being a part-time tackle and full-time edge rusher. What is certain is that Lee has a tremendous package of skills that should allow him to be placed almost anywhere along the defensive line and contribute this upcoming season.
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