Clemson linebacker Trenton Simpson Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Steelers keeping close eye on Clemson draft prospect

By Aaron Becker | Last updated 3/14/23

Clemson University held its pro day Tuesday ahead of the 2023 NFL Draft, and the Steelers have been eyeing one of its top prospects.

Head coach Mike Tomlin watched LB Trenton Simpson closely throughout his workout.

Clemson LB Trenton Simpson hits 40.5 in vertical jump with Steelers HC Mike Tomlin watching in the background. Simpson also did 9’10 on the broad jump.

Simpson, who also ran a 4.43 in 40-yard dash at Combine, is a top-50 prospect on @MoveTheSticks board. pic.twitter.com/SQUcm911X3
— Cameron Wolfe (@CameronWolfe) March 14, 2023

Simpson seems to have all the measurables, running a 4.43-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine and hitting a 40.5-inch vertical jump at his pro day. The Clemson product ranked as the second best linebacker at the combine with a total score of 82.

The 21-year-old also ranks as Pro Football Focus' No. 66 overall prospect on its big board after having 73 tackles, 2.5 sacks and two forced fumbles in 2022.

Pittsburgh holds three picks in the top 50 of the 2023 NFL Draft and may just be able to land Simpson with No. 17, 32 or 49.

It feels as though the Steelers will go cornerback and offensive line with their first two picks. However, if Simpson is still on the board at No. 49, he may be heading to Pittsburgh with the team in need of a linebacker as well.

The Steelers' entire inside linebacker group combined for just one sack and zero interceptions, forced fumbles or fumble recoveries in 2022. Maybe Clemson's athletic linebacker can help bolster the group in 2023.

More must-reads: