Steelers Eyeing Massive Florida State Defensive Lineman Ahead of Draft

Darrell Jackson Jr. is visiting the team as they look to bolster their defensive front.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 3:53pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the explosive movements and collisions of a defensive lineman, with sharp planes of Steelers gold, black, and white colors creating a conceptual, deconstructed visual.The Steelers' search for defensive line reinforcements takes an analytical, cubist turn as they evaluate the raw power and potential of prospect Darrell Jackson Jr.Today in Pittsburgh

The Pittsburgh Steelers are hosting Florida State defensive tackle Darrell Jackson Jr. for a pre-draft visit on Tuesday. Jackson, a two-time All-ACC honorable mention, stands over 6-foot-5 and weighs 315 pounds, making him an imposing interior presence. The Steelers are looking to add depth to their defensive line as longtime star Cam Heyward nears the end of his career.

Why it matters

The Steelers have already made one key addition to their defensive line this offseason by signing veteran Sebastian Joseph-Day in free agency. Bringing in a prospect like Jackson could help them continue to build a formidable front as they look to return to the playoffs in 2026.

The details

Jackson was a two-time All-ACC honorable mention at Florida State, starting 24 games and totaling 77 tackles, seven tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, a pass breakup and a forced fumble. NFL.com has given him a 6.00 prospect grade, meaning he has the 'traits or talent to be an above-average backup.' The Steelers are hosting Jackson as they evaluate options to bolster their defensive line ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.

  • Jackson is visiting the Steelers on Tuesday, April 8, 2026.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for later this month.

The players

Darrell Jackson Jr.

A defensive tackle from Florida State University who stands over 6-foot-5 and weighs 315 pounds, making him an imposing interior presence.

Cam Heyward

A longtime star defensive lineman for the Pittsburgh Steelers who is nearing the end of his career.

Sebastian Joseph-Day

A veteran defensive lineman who the Steelers signed in free agency this offseason to help bolster their defensive front.

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What they’re saying

“While he's an enormous interior presence with impressive physical features, Jackson's inconsistencies are partially rooted in flawed fundamentals and technique. The tape is uneven with a floor of average backup, but Jackson's size and length could be considered unmined gold by some teams.”

— Lance Zierlein, NFL.com Analyst

What’s next

The Steelers will continue to evaluate Jackson and other defensive line prospects as they prepare for the 2026 NFL Draft later this month.

The takeaway

The Steelers are being proactive in their efforts to find long-term solutions for their defensive line, hosting a massive prospect like Darrell Jackson Jr. as they look to build on their recent free agent addition of Sebastian Joseph-Day. This visit highlights the team's commitment to strengthening their front seven as they aim to return to the playoffs.