Steelers Showing Strong Interest In FSU Football Standout

Pittsburgh hosts top defensive tackle prospect Darrell Jackson Jr. for pre-draft visit

Apr. 9, 2026 at 4:37pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the abstract forms and angles of a football defensive line, capturing the power and dynamism of the sport through a deconstructed, multi-perspective visual style.A cubist interpretation of the physical intensity and strategic complexity of NFL defensive line play.Havana Today

The Pittsburgh Steelers recently hosted Florida State defensive tackle Darrell Jackson Jr. for a top-30 pre-draft visit, indicating strong interest in the 6'5", 313-pound prospect. Jackson, who transferred from Miami ahead of the 2023 season, is projected as a third-round pick in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft.

Why it matters

The Steelers have multiple third-round picks and could use one to bolster their defensive line, which has been a focus of their rebuild over the past two years. Jackson's size, run-stopping ability, and potential upside make him an intriguing developmental option for Pittsburgh.

The details

Jackson, a native of Havana, Florida, finished the 2025 season with a strong run defense grade of 81.3 and an overall defensive grade of 74.3, per PFF. While his pass rush grade of 58.5 isn't ideal, his rare physical attributes, including an 86-inch wingspan, 34-inch arms, and 11-inch hands, offer significant upside that NFL teams are looking to develop. Over his 50-game collegiate career, Jackson recorded 129 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, 7.5 sacks, two pass breakups, and one forced fumble.

  • The Steelers wrapped up their Top 30 visits by hosting Jackson on Tuesday, April 7, 2026.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft is set to kick off on April 23, 2026, marking the 50th anniversary of the event.

The players

Darrell Jackson Jr.

A 6'5", 313-pound defensive tackle who transferred from Miami to Florida State ahead of the 2023 season. He is projected as a third-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Cam Heyward

A veteran leader on the Steelers' defensive line.

Keeanu Benton

An emerging star on the Steelers' defensive line.

Omar Kahn

The general manager of the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“You've got to calculate what your dreams are. So, how you move on the field is how you're going to be off the field. So, I just want to be a pro all around.”

— Darrell Jackson Jr.

What’s next

The Steelers have three picks in the third round, a second-round pick at No. 53, and a fourth-round pick at No. 121. They could use one of those third-round selections to add Jackson to their defensive line rotation.

The takeaway

The Steelers' interest in Darrell Jackson Jr. highlights their ongoing efforts to rebuild their defensive front, with the talented Florida State defensive tackle offering significant upside as a potential third-round pick. Jackson's size, run-stopping ability, and physical attributes make him an intriguing developmental prospect for a Steelers team looking to fortify its defensive line.