In this year's NFL draft, the Pittsburgh Steelers selected former Wisconsin outside linebacker T.J. Watt with the 30th overall pick.

This was a clear signal that the Steelers are looking for an eventual replacement for former All-Pro outside linebacker James Harrison, who is set to enter his 14th year in the league. According to Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Pittsburgh plans on using the rookie in a starting role, taking over Harrison spot.

The Steelers plan to play their two first-round draft picks at outside linebacker, Bud Dupree and rookie T.J. Watt, virtually all the time this season and not rotate others into games as they have done in the most recent past.

That means 39-year-old James Harrison will be a “relief pitcher,” according to his coach. He will neither start nor get extended playing time at outside linebacker.

“We have two guys who are first-rounders, we drafted them for this,” said Joey Porter, their outside linebackers coach. “Now you have to turn them loose and let them play.”

Although Harrison will not be in the starting lineup, he will still be heavily featured in the team's game plan. He is still a factor despite being 39 years old, recording 53 total tackles with 5.0 sacks, two forced fumbles, and an interception last season.

RECOMMENDED (Article Continues Below)
Justin Fields surrounded by piles of cash.

Nihad Zunic ·

Watt could prove to be a high impact player in his first season in the league as a pass rusher in the team's 3-4 defensive scheme. He displayed that during his time with Wisconsin, coming off a productive junior season where he recorded 59 total tackles with 11.5 sacks and 15.5 tackles for loss.

The 22-year-old is the younger brother of three-time Defensive Player of the Year J.J. Watt, and many pundits believe he'll carve out a productive career of his own with the Steelers.