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2023 NFL Draft

Standout Baylor NT Siaki Ika Absent From Senior Bowl DL Roster

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Siaki Ika Steelers Draft

Standout Baylor nose tackle prospect Siaki Ika was absent from the Senior Bowl’s defensive line rosters when they were revealed on Thursday, a sign that one of the best defensive tackle prospects may not be in Mobile.

Back in November, Ika was one of the first defensive line prospects to accept an invite. He has steadily seen his stock increase. At 6-foot-4, 355 pounds, he is a true nose tackle that can push the pocket and play on all three downs. Could that be something that the Steelers look for in the position with a lack of a true nose tackle.

His combination of twitchy athleticism and heavy hands gives him a three-down skillset. He should go early in the second round, and for the Steelers, he could be an appealing option with the pick acquired in the Chase Claypool trade.

This could have been an opportunity for the Steelers to work with Ika up close, with Steeler secondary coach Grady Brown being the National team’s defensive coordinator and Denzel Martin coaching the outside linebackers.

Siaki Ika stands to test well at the NFL Combine in March, and Pittsburgh will likely have him on their radar to visit there. However, they will seemingly have to push their calendar back with potential interactions up close and personal with Ika seemingly not attending the Senior Bowl.