By Sunday 
When it comes to the NFL Draft, the Pittsburgh Steelers have a type—and inside linebacker is no exception. Each year, as fans and analysts toss around big names and bold predictions, the Steelers quietly stick to a script that’s been working since the Mike Tomlin era began. So, what exactly are they looking for? And who fits the mold in 2025? Let’s dive into it.
The Steelers’ Secret Formula
If there’s one thing the Steelers have taught us, it’s that past picks can tell future stories. They’ve drafted 13 inside linebackers since 2007, and a pattern has emerged—one that’s more than just gut feel and game tape. From height and weight to hand size and short shuttle times, Pittsburgh has a clear athletic and physical profile they lean into.
After the selection of Payton Wilson in the 2024 NFL Draft, the Steelers’ linebacker checklist got a slight tweak. Here’s the updated “must-have” template:
- Height: 6’0” or taller
- Weight: 225+ pounds
- Arm Length: 31” or more
- Hand Size: 9” or larger
- 40 Time: 4.80 seconds or better
- Bench Press: 20+ reps
- Vertical Jump: 33”+
- Short Shuttle: 4.40 seconds or better
- Three-Cone: 7.35 seconds or better
That’s a lot of boxes to check—and it narrows the field fast.
Who Checks All the Boxes in 2025?
So who’s out there waving the black-and-gold flag from the Combine?
Teddye Buchanan (California) might just be that dude. Measuring in at 6’2” and 233 pounds with a 4.60 forty and a 40” vertical, Buchanan ticks every single box on the Steelers’ checklist—and he’s been steadily rising through the pre-draft process. The guy’s got range, production, and the physical tools Pittsburgh loves.
Two others—Cody Lindenberg (Minnesota) and Cody Simon (Ohio State)—also pass the Steelers’ sniff test. Both are expected to go late in the draft (think Round 5 to 7), but don’t be surprised if they show up on the Steelers’ radar.
Just One Thing Missing…
There’s also a group of “almosts”—prospects who came up short in only one metric. Most of them simply didn’t participate in that event at all, which is always tricky to weigh.
- Jeffrey Bassa (Oregon): No short shuttle recorded
- Carson Bruener (Washington): Bench press DNP
- Kobe King (Penn State): Vertical jump DNP
- Demetrius Knight (South Carolina): Vert just short at 31.5”
- Jack Kiser (Notre Dame): Arms came in at 30 3/8”
- Kain Medrano (UCLA): Bench DNP
One name to watch: Carson Bruener. He’s the son of Steelers legend and current team scout Mark Bruener. That connection alone could put him on Pittsburgh’s late-round radar. Bloodlines matter in this league—especially in Pittsburgh.
Is Inside Linebacker Even a Need?
Short answer? Not really. The Steelers aren’t starving for talent at the position right now. But Pittsburgh doesn’t always draft for need. They draft for fit. And if one of these guys falls into their lap on Day 3, don’t be surprised if they pull the trigger.
After all, this franchise thrives on development and upside—especially on defense. If a linebacker fits their profile and plays with that signature Steeler edge, he’s got a shot.
The Bottom Line
The Steelers know who they are, and they’ve got the receipts to prove it. When it comes to inside linebackers, they’re not guessing—they’re following a blueprint built over nearly two decades. And in 2025, that blueprint might just lead them to Teddye Buchanan or another quietly perfect fit.
No hype, no flash—just another smart, Steeler-style pick.