Ohio State’s Jack Sawyer Answers Steelers’ Call in 4th Round of 2025 NFL Draft

The phone call Jack Sawyer had been waiting for finally came. After a long weekend of anticipation, emotion, and hope, the former Ohio State defensive end heard his name announced on Day 3 of the 2025 NFL Draft. With the 119th overall pick in the fourth round, the Pittsburgh Steelers made the move—bringing a dynamic pass rusher into the fold and adding another chapter to their rich legacy of defensive dominance.

For Sawyer, it was the culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, and perseverance. Once a five-star recruit and the crown jewel of Ohio State’s 2021 class, his journey to the NFL was filled with high expectations, flashes of brilliance, and lessons learned through adversity. Now, he enters the professional ranks with a chip on his shoulder and an opportunity to prove the doubters wrong—all while wearing one of the NFL’s most storied uniforms.

A Star in the Making at Pickerington North

Jack Sawyer’s football story began in the Columbus suburb of Pickerington, Ohio, where he quickly rose to prominence at Pickerington North High School. Standing 6-foot-5 with explosive athleticism and a relentless motor, Sawyer was the top-ranked defensive player in the state and a consensus five-star recruit by the time he reached his senior year.

His early commitment to Ohio State was seen as a massive recruiting win for head coach Ryan Day. Sawyer embodied everything the Buckeyes looked for in a defensive leader: toughness, football IQ, and unwavering intensity.

Despite sitting out his senior season due to COVID-19 concerns and to prepare for college, Sawyer arrived at Ohio State with enormous expectations—and he wasted no time making an impression.

Development in Columbus: The Ohio State Years

Sawyer’s time at Ohio State was a journey of growth. He entered a deep and talented defensive line rotation in 2021, contributing immediately as a freshman with 3.0 sacks and numerous quarterback pressures. While not a full-time starter that season, it was clear he possessed the tools to be special.

Over the next few years, Sawyer’s role evolved. In 2022, he shifted between defensive end and the “Jack” hybrid linebacker position, showcasing his versatility but also creating some challenges with consistency. Critics questioned whether constant position changes impacted his ability to produce statistically at a high level.

But by 2023 and into 2024, Sawyer found his groove. He returned to a more traditional edge-rushing role and became a disruptive force. His final season in Columbus was his most complete: 8.5 sacks, 14 tackles for loss, three forced fumbles, and a growing reputation as a tone-setter on the Buckeyes’ defense.

Teammates praised his leadership, coaches lauded his work ethic, and opponents often game-planned around him. While he didn’t quite match the sack numbers of past Buckeye greats like Chase Young or Nick Bosa, his impact extended beyond the stat sheet.

Pre-Draft Evaluation: Strengths and Questions

Heading into the 2025 NFL Draft, Jack Sawyer was one of the more polarizing edge defenders on the board. Analysts noted his prototypical size (6-foot-5, 265 pounds), elite first step, and violent hands as major assets. He excelled at setting the edge in the run game and had the flexibility to drop into coverage in certain schemes.

NFL scouts loved his motor and coachability. Several teams viewed him as a scheme-versatile defender who could contribute immediately on special teams and work into a pass-rush rotation.

However, concerns lingered about his ceiling. Some evaluators questioned his ability to bend around the edge against NFL-caliber tackles. Others pointed to his relatively modest sack production as a sign that he might project more as a rotational player than a star.

Still, in a deep edge rusher class, Sawyer remained firmly on most teams’ Day 2 radar. When the second and third rounds came and went without his name being called, questions emerged. But Sawyer didn’t panic. He stayed patient. And when the Steelers called early in Round 4, it marked both an end and a beginning.

Steelers Find a Fit: Why Pittsburgh Made the Pick

The Pittsburgh Steelers have long prided themselves on defense. From the Steel Curtain of the 1970s to the blitz-heavy schemes of the 2000s, the organization has always placed a premium on edge rushers. In recent years, stars like T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith have carried that torch.

By selecting Jack Sawyer, the Steelers added depth and future potential to their pass rush unit. General Manager Omar Khan explained the team’s thinking in a post-draft press conference:

“We love Jack’s physical traits, but what really stood out was his football IQ and toughness. He’s a Pittsburgh-style player—gritty, relentless, and smart. He’s going to come in, compete, and push everyone around him.”

The Steelers envision Sawyer as a versatile chess piece who can rotate behind Watt and Highsmith, giving them flexibility in both base and sub-packages. Defensive coordinator Teryl Austin also hinted that Sawyer could see time on special teams and even in interior blitz looks.

Reuniting With Buckeye Brother Denzel Burke

Sawyer won’t be alone in the Steel City. The Steelers also drafted Ohio State cornerback Denzel Burke in the third round, reuniting the two former teammates and leaders of the Buckeyes’ 2024 defense. The connection could ease Sawyer’s transition to the NFL, especially as both adjust to life in a new locker room.

“Man, I couldn’t be more pumped,” Sawyer said in a post-draft interview. “To go to a place like Pittsburgh and do it alongside Denzel, that’s special. We’ve been through the battles together—now we’re ready for the next one.”

Burke echoed the sentiment, posting on social media: “Steel City got a dog. Let’s go eat, bro.”

Motivation and Mindset: Fuel for the Next Level

Sawyer enters the NFL with a chip on his shoulder. Falling to the fourth round wasn’t part of the original script—but he’s using it as fuel.

“I know what I bring to the table,” he said. “People can doubt, that’s fine. I’ve bet on myself before and I’ll do it again. This is just the beginning.”

That underdog mentality aligns perfectly with the Steelers’ organizational ethos. Head coach Mike Tomlin has long favored players who carry a sense of urgency and hunger—a profile Sawyer fits to perfection.

What the Steelers Are Getting: Strengths and Potential

1. Power and Technique

Sawyer excels in hand usage and leverage. He wins with power moves and is highly effective in collapsing the pocket.

2. High Motor

He plays with nonstop energy and often draws praise for his relentless pursuit of the football—traits highly valued in Pittsburgh’s defense.

3. Versatility

Sawyer can line up as a traditional defensive end or stand-up outside linebacker. His experience in multiple schemes at Ohio State adds to his NFL adaptability.

4. Leadership

As a team captain and vocal leader in Columbus, Sawyer brings intangible value—setting an example in the locker room and on the practice field.

Room for Growth: What Needs Work

To become an every-down NFL starter, Sawyer will need to refine a few areas:

1. Pass-Rush Creativity

He’s powerful but must develop more variety in his pass-rush arsenal. Counter moves and better bend will be key.

2. Speed-to-Power Transition

Translating his quick first step into consistent pressure against elite NFL tackles will be a test.

3. Play Recognition

At times, Sawyer can be aggressive to a fault. Improving his recognition against screens and play-action will help.

Steelers’ Edge Rotation Outlook

With T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith entrenched as starters, Sawyer won’t be expected to carry the load immediately. Instead, he’ll likely rotate into specific pass-rush packages and contribute on special teams while developing under elite mentorship.

Former Steelers edge rusher James Harrison offered praise for the pick on social media:

“Sawyer’s got the frame and the fire. Great place to learn behind 90 (Watt). This kid’s gonna be a problem.”

Buckeye Brotherhood in the NFL

Jack Sawyer becomes the latest in a long line of Ohio State defenders to make the leap to the NFL. With names like Chase Young, Joey Bosa, and Sam Hubbard carving out successful careers, the Buckeyes’ reputation for producing pro-ready defensive linemen continues.

For Sawyer, it’s both an honor and a responsibility.

“I know the bar,” he said. “I’ve trained with those guys, watched how they work. I plan to carry that tradition forward.”

Looking Ahead: A New Chapter Begins

The 2025 NFL season will be about proving himself all over again. Sawyer isn’t walking into a guaranteed starting role, but that’s just fine with him. He’s ready to earn everything—just like he did at Ohio State, and just like he did waiting for the phone to ring on Day 3 of the draft.

His journey has already inspired fans in Columbus and now has the attention of the Steel City. With determination in his heart and the black and gold on his back, Jack Sawyer is ready to chase greatness.

While fourth-round picks don’t often dominate headlines, Jack Sawyer’s selection by the Pittsburgh Steelers has all the ingredients for a breakout story. He has the pedigree, the passion, and the perfect landing spot to flourish. If he continues to evolve, learns from veterans like T.J. Watt, and embraces his underdog status, Sawyer could be one of the 2025 NFL Draft’s biggest steals.

The Steelers got a fighter. Ohio State sent another warrior to the league. And Jack Sawyer? He finally got the call. Now, it’s time to answer it.