Steelers draft pick Jack Sawyer had a legendary moment in Ohio State vs. Michigan rivalry

Mike Masala

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Steelers draft pick Jack Sawyer had a legendary moment in Ohio State vs. Michigan rivalry image

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After taking Oregon defensive tackle Derrick Harmon in the first round and Iowa running back Kaleb Johnson in the third round, the Pittsburgh Steelers used their first selection on Day 3 of the 2025 NFL draft (fourth round - No. 123 overall) on Ohio State edge rusher Jack Sawyer.

Sawyer, 22, was a five-star recruit at Pickerington High School North in Pickerington, Ohio, and was ranked as the top collegiate prospect in his class by ESPN before committing to Ohio State.

In 54 games with the Buckeyes, Sawyer recorded 144 tackles (29 for a loss), 23 sacks, 11 passes defended, six forced fumbles, three fumbles recovered and one interception. He also earned Second-team All-Big Ten honors twice and helped Ohio State win a national championship in 2024.

This past year, Sawyer was involved in one of the most entertaining moments in college football, as the linebacker was involved in a post-game brawl following a loss to the rival Michigan Wolverines at Ohio Stadium. Michigan players went to place their flag on the field, and Sawyer took exception.

*NSFW WARNING* 

Pittsburgh lost linebackers Elandon Roberts and Tyler Matakevich this offseason and only signed one, Malik Harrison. Still, Sawyer will probably be behind Patrick Queen, Alex Highsmith and Payton Wilson on the depth chart, so if everyone is healthy, he can be brought along at his pace in his rookie year before potentially taking on a larger role later in 2025 or the year after.

It's clear that the Steelers are getting a passionate player who will fit in well in the AFC North. The Cleveland Browns, Cincinnati Bengals and Baltimore Ravens better get ready to take on Sawyer twice a year. Those games are already intense, and adding someone who cares about team respect as much as Sawyer does will take things up a notch.

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Mike Masala

Mike Masala previously served as the Managing Editor of USA TODAY's Dolphins Wire as well as a contributing writer at Patriots Wire. A lifelong New England resident, he is the self-proclaimed captain and lone member of the Laurence Maroney Fan Club. Follow on Twitter/X: @Mike_Masala