Why Jack Sawyer Must Play a Bigger Role Against the Saints

During the offseason, one player on the Pittsburgh Steelers roster many projected to be a breakout player this season, was second-year linebacker Jack Sawyer. Yet, after six games, Sawyer has yet to make any real waves as he has registered just one tackle for loss and a deflection.

The importance of Sawyer's contribution comes at an important time, as both T.J Watt and Alex Highsmith are not 100% heading into the match tomorrow against the New Orleans Saints in Paris, France. Even with Nick Herbig emerging as a major defensive contributor, they still that extra dimension of support with Sawyer.

Coordinator Patrick Graham's defense showed exactly what it can be at its best during the Steelers' comeback victory over the Buccaneers in Week 6. After struggling early, the unit settled in, tightened its coverage, and began generating the type of pressure that swung momentum back in Pittsburgh's favor. The defense's ability to adjust throughout the game was a reminder that Graham's scheme works when every level of the defense is doing its job. However, for the unit to reach its full potential moving forward, it cannot rely solely on Watt, Highsmith, and Herbig to create disruption.

That is where Sawyer becomes increasingly important.

The Steelers drafted him because of his versatility, physicality, and ability to impact games in multiple ways. With Watt and Highsmith both less than 100 percent entering Sunday's matchup against the Saints, the opportunity is there for Sawyer to carve out a larger role. Graham's defense thrives when opposing offenses are forced to account for multiple pass-rush threats, and Sawyer has the talent to become that complementary piece.

If the Steelers are going to sustain the defensive success they displayed against Tampa Bay, they need Sawyer to turn flashes of potential into consistent production.