Steelers Host Explosive Defensive Lineman for Top 30 Visit
The 2025 NFL Draft is approaching, and the Pittsburgh Steelers enter the time of the offseason filled with Pro Days and Pre-Draft visits, of which they are allotted 30 for non-local prospects. Getting these guys in the building helps in multiple ways. From deep-diving medical evaluations to comprehensive in-person interviews, it’s a chance for the Steelers to really get a bead on specific prospects they want to really get to know before Draft Day rolls around.
The other major benefit is for us as fans. Since these visits are limited, it really helps to narrow down which prospects and position groups are of the most interest to the team in this NFL Draft process. If a player comes for a Top 30 Visit, it’s not a smokescreen, it’s because there is real interest between the organization and prospect.
The Steelers’ most recent reported Top 30 visit was used to host SMU Defensive Tackle Elijah Roberts, an interior pass-rush specialist with an impressive collegiate resume.
ELIJAH ROBERTS
Defensive Tackle | SMU
Ht. 6040 | Wt. 285lbs | Senior
SMU DL Elijah Roberts said he has 30 visits scheduled with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Philadelphia Eagles.
Versatile DL who’s had 17.5 sacks the last two seasons.
— Joseph Hoyt (@JoeJHoyt) March 24, 2025
Jeremy Betz’s Scouting Report:
While far from a complete prospect, SMU’s Elijah Roberts possesses an intriguing skillset as 5-technique DE. He put up elite collegiate production, displaying an explosive first step and the ability to penetrate quickly as a pass rusher and gap-shooting run defender. A bit of a tweener, Roberts isn’t big enough to play too far inside extensively nor is he quick enough to play as a standup OLB in the Steelers 3-4 defensive scheme. However, in 1-on-1 matchups, Roberts wins with quick hands and deceptive speed to power, often beating opponents to the hole for a quick play in the backfield. Needs to improve tackling technique at the next level. Overall, Roberts is an early Day 3 prospect with role-playing upside as a 5-tech or 3-4 DE on passing downs.
