Pittsburgh Steelers Eyeing SMU Defensive Tackle Jared Harrison-Hunte as Potential Future Star
The Pittsburgh Steelers have long been known for their commitment to building a dominant defense, and with the 2025 NFL Draft fast approaching, they have set their sights on several prospects who could potentially add even more power to their front seven. One of the most intriguing players on their radar is Jared Harrison-Hunte, a standout defensive tackle from Southern Methodist University (SMU). The 6-foot-4, 310-pound defensive lineman has been a force to be reckoned with at SMU, and his performance has caught the eye of scouts and analysts across the league. The Steelers, known for their “Steel Curtain” defense, are particularly interested in Harrison-Hunte’s potential to contribute to their already impressive defensive line.
Harrison-Hunte has been a versatile player throughout his career at SMU, able to operate both as a nose tackle and as a 3-technique. His ability to generate pressure on the quarterback while also occupying blockers and plugging running lanes makes him a valuable asset for any NFL team looking to bolster their defensive line. However, it’s his overall physical tools and high ceiling that have the Steelers’ brass so intrigued.
Throughout his college career, Harrison-Hunte has displayed rare power and quickness for a player of his size. His ability to shed blockers with ease and make plays in the backfield has made him a consistent threat against both the run and the pass. These attributes are exactly what the Steelers need to complement their existing defensive core, which already includes key players like Cam Heyward and T.J. Watt.
One of the major selling points for Harrison-Hunte is his development over his four years at SMU. He has shown significant improvement in terms of his technique and understanding of the game. Where he once relied solely on raw athleticism, Harrison-Hunte has refined his pass-rushing moves, adding a series of spin and swim techniques to his arsenal. His improved hand usage has been a key factor in his ability to get off blocks and make plays in the backfield, and scouts have noted his football IQ as one of his strongest attributes.
In a league where the importance of the defensive line continues to rise, having players like Harrison-Hunte who can disrupt the quarterback’s rhythm and stop the run is a game-changer. The Steelers, whose defense has traditionally relied on a powerful defensive front, are hoping that Harrison-Hunte can develop into a player who will not only help them in the immediate future but will become a key figure for years to come.
One of the biggest areas where Harrison-Hunte could have an immediate impact is against the run. The Steelers have always prided themselves on stopping the run, and with teams in the AFC such as the Cleveland Browns and Baltimore Ravens relying on heavy ground attacks, this could be an area where Harrison-Hunte can make his mark early in his career. Harrison-Hunte’s size and strength make him difficult to move off the ball, and his quickness allows him to get into the backfield and disrupt running plays before they have a chance to develop.
When it comes to pass-rushing, Harrison-Hunte still has room to grow, but he has flashed the ability to generate pressure on the quarterback. His combination of power and explosiveness makes him a real threat, and once he polishes his technique further, he could become a dominant interior rusher. The Steelers have a history of developing pass-rushing defensive linemen, and Harrison-Hunte has the tools to thrive under the tutelage of their coaching staff.
Although the Steelers have a strong defensive line, adding a player like Harrison-Hunte would provide them with additional depth and versatility. In a league where injuries can quickly deplete a roster, having players who can rotate in and out without losing production is critical. Harrison-Hunte’s versatility to play both inside and outside along the defensive line gives the Steelers the flexibility to mix and match their personnel as needed.
Harrison-Hunte’s fit with the Steelers also makes sense in terms of their team culture. The Steelers have built a reputation for drafting and developing players with high character and work ethic, and Harrison-Hunte is no exception. Known for his professionalism and dedication to his craft, Harrison-Hunte has the mental toughness to thrive in Pittsburgh’s competitive environment. The city and its fans are known for their blue-collar mentality, and Harrison-Hunte’s approach to the game mirrors that ethos. His attitude and commitment to improving could make him a fan favorite in the Steel City.
Looking at the Steelers’ draft needs, defensive line may not be the most pressing, but it is certainly an area where they could look to improve. With the defensive line aging and questions surrounding the long-term health of certain players, bringing in someone like Harrison-Hunte would allow the Steelers to continue their dominance up front while planning for the future. Harrison-Hunte has the potential to contribute immediately, but he also has the upside to become a foundational piece in the years to come.
From a technical standpoint, Harrison-Hunte has all the tools to succeed in the NFL. His burst off the line of scrimmage is impressive for a player of his size, and his ability to disengage from blockers allows him to stay in the play longer. His combination of strength and agility gives him the flexibility to play in multiple schemes, making him an ideal fit for Pittsburgh’s defense, which is known for being aggressive and versatile.
As the draft approaches, Harrison-Hunte will undoubtedly continue to be a hot topic of conversation. Many analysts believe that he has the potential to be one of the top defensive tackles in this year’s class, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see the Steelers target him in the middle rounds. With their history of drafting successful defensive players, Harrison-Hunte could be the next piece of the puzzle in what has become one of the most feared defenses in the NFL.
In conclusion, Jared Harrison-Hunte’s future in the NFL looks incredibly bright, and the Pittsburgh Steelers have taken notice. His blend of size, strength, and athleticism makes him a perfect fit for their defensive line, and his growth over the years at SMU shows that he has the potential to be a key contributor at the next level. With the Steelers always in search of players who can improve their defense, Harrison-Hunte could be the missing piece to make their front seven even more formidable. As we approach the draft, all eyes will be on Harrison-Hunte as he aims to take the next step in his career and become an integral part of an NFL defense for years to come.
