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Steelers Sign Familiar Lineman to 53-Man Roster, Place Loudermilk on IR

The Pittsburgh Steelers suffered another blow to their defense this week as defensive lineman Isaiahh Loudermilk was officially placed on injured reserve. Head coach Mike Tomlin confirmed Loudermilk will miss multiple weeks after sustaining a high-ankle sprain during the team’s loss to Seattle.

The injury sidelines Loudermilk for at least four weeks, a tough setback considering he had started Pittsburgh’s first two games of the 2025 season after spending much of his career in a rotational role. His presence in the trenches had been a stabilizing factor for a defense already dealing with several absences.

Steelers have Isaiahh Loudermilk, Mark Robinson active against Buccaneers |  Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

To address the void, the Steelers elevated defensive lineman DeMarvin Leal from the practice squad to the 53-man roster. The move highlights Pittsburgh’s effort to reinforce depth up front and ensure stability as the season grinds forward.

Leal, a former third-round pick in 2022, has appeared in 28 games with six starts in his young career. He logged five appearances last season, recording four total tackles, and has been viewed internally as a versatile piece capable of filling multiple roles along the defensive line.

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In addition to the roster adjustment, Pittsburgh announced several practice squad changes. Linebacker Ja’Whaun Bentley, wide receiver Isaiah Hodgins, and tight end Matt Sokol were all signed to the squad. Meanwhile, tight end J.J. Galbreath and wideout Rakim Jarrett were released.

With Loudermilk sidelined and Leal stepping into the spotlight, the Steelers hope the reshuffled defensive line can hold strong as they prepare for a crucial stretch of the season.

Legendary Drew Brees Praises the Performance of the Saints' Rookie RB, the Perfect Replacement for Alvin Kamara
Can you believe it? The 2025 season is turning into a nightmare for the New Orleans Saints' running back corps, with superstar Alvin Kamara suffering a severe injury to his knee and ankle right in Week 12! Kendre Miller is also out for similar reasons, leaving Saints fans in a panic: Who will save the offense? But don't worry, a "hidden gem" rookie from the 6th round of the draft has stepped into the spotlight, turning Kamara's absence into a golden opportunity to shine brilliantly – and he's even received "high-flying" praise from legendary Drew Brees! Things didn't go as planned: Kamara was expected to "revive" under head coach Kellen Moore, while Miller awaited an explosive season. But injuries struck, opening the door for this young guy – a former college star with all-time records in rushing yards and touchdowns at Kansas. Initially, he was predicted to just sit on the bench, even being a "healthy scratch" in the first few weeks of the season. But when Kamara went down, he was thrust into the lead role, and oh boy, his performance is making the entire NFL take notice! It took a few weeks to "warm up," but this rookie has improved day by day, earning trust from Moore. His career-best game? A sweet 84 scrimmage yards and a touchdown against the Buccaneers! His touches skyrocketed: 12 times against the Falcons (7 rushes, 5 receptions), 17 times against the Dolphins (14 rushes, 3 receptions), then exploding with 20 opportunities in the upset win over the Buccaneers (19 rushes, 1 reception). Not only an efficient rusher, he's also a "golden shield" in the passing game – catching 16/18 targets for 100 yards this season, and spectacular blocks that save quarterback Tyler Shough from pressure! And now, the "blockbuster" reveal: That's Devin Neal, the rookie RB who's turning the Saints into a "youth whirlwind"! The Saints' 2025 draft class is truly a "gold mine," with Neal emphasizing that through his impressive performance. With no timeline for Kamara's return, Neal will continue to be used more – which isn't a bad thing at all, as he's making the most of the opportunity that Miller never got! But the peak? Legendary Drew Brees, the icon of the Saints, has lavished praise on Neal during a Netflix broadcast! Brees emotionally shared: "Devin Neal has shown incredible consistency in his rookie season, and he's proving himself to be an important part of the Saints' future – a true talent that reminds me of the golden days!" Praise from "King" Brees not only elevates Neal but also ignites hope for Saints fans: Could this guy be the "perfect replacement" for Kamara? With his role growing larger, Neal is the shining bright spot, turning opposing defenses into a "joke" and pushing the Saints closer to the playoffs! Don't miss out – the Saints are "transforming" thanks to the new generation, and Neal is the "explosive trigger"! Follow now for the next drama in the 2025 NFL!