With the 226th pick of the NFL Draft, the Pittsburgh Steelers have drafted Washington Linebacker Carson Bruener.
A fifth-year senior, Bruener had starts as early as his redshirt freshman year, but he didn’t take over a full-time starter role until this past season. In his career he totaled 215 tackles. He’s the son of former Steelers tight End Mark Bruener.
Carson Bruener:
– Son of former Steeler TE “Mark Bruener”
– Tackling Machine (104 in 2024)
– Best when downhill facing the run
– Plays hard and has great eyes/instincts
A fun depth pairing with Payton Wilson and Patrick Queen.
pic.twitter.com/i4z6wKYm7X
— Steelers Draft HQ (@SteelersDraftt) April 26, 2025
Bruener is fast in a straight line (4.58 40-time), but there are doubts about his ability to move quickly sideline to sideline. He’s also on the smaller side at 6’1 and 227 pounds and sub-32” arms. He’s limited in pass coverage, so his primary job should be on special teams with hopes of earning an Elandon Roberts-style role on defense. He’ll have an uphill battle to make the team, so those summer special teams reps will be invaluable to him.
