The Pittsburgh Steelers are hosting Missouri State defensive lineman Eric Johnson for a pre-draft visit on April 18, according to a report by Aaron Wilson of Pro Football Network.
Wilson also reported that Johnson will meet with the Detroit Lions, Los Angeles Chargers, New Orleans Satins, Chicago Bears, Indianapolis Colts, Green Bay Packers and Cincinnati Bengals, making the FCS defensive lineman a sought-after interview. Teams first got a good look at Johnson when he was invited to the 2022 Senior Bowl.
The 6-foot-5, 298-pound Johnson spent five seasons with the Bears. In 2021, he had 34 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, a fumble recovery and two passes defended. He was an FCS All-American and was named to the All-Missouri Valley team for the second consecutive season.
Johnson would likely be a defensive end in the Steelers’ 3-4 base defense, as he’s roughly the same size as starter Cam Heyward.
The Steelers could have a need at the position based on whether or not Stephon Tuitt decides to return to football. Heyward, Chris Wormley, Isaiahh Loudermilk and Henry Mondeaux are all slated to return to the position. Steelers general manager Kevin Colbert said two weeks ago that he is “hopeful” that Tuitt will return.