The Steelers are clearly eyeing the inside linebacker position with keen interest as they prepare for the draft. They've lined up a visit with LSU's Harold Perkins Jr., adding another name to their list of potential picks.
Perkins had a solid 2025 season with the Tigers, racking up 56 tackles, eight tackles for loss, four sacks, three interceptions, and a forced fumble. Despite these numbers, he's projected as a fourth-round pick according to Mock Draft Database.
NFL analyst Lance Zierlein gives us a deeper look into Perkins' profile. While he might be slightly undersized, his ability to read the run and penetrate the backfield is noteworthy.
He’s got the physicality to finish tackles at the line, though he may not have regained all his explosiveness after an ACL tear in 2024. His instincts in space could use some sharpening, especially in coverage, but his athleticism is undeniable.
Perkins isn't alone in drawing interest from Pittsburgh. He joins Texas Tech’s Jacob Rodriguez and Pitt’s Kyle Louis as part of the Steelers’ draft considerations for the linebacker spot. The team seems focused on finding a player who can thrive in a scheme that lets them play aggressively at the line.