The list of players set to attend the rookie mini camp for the Pittsburgh Steelers continues to grow.
Delaware linebacker Johnny Buchanan, an FCS All-American two years in a row for the Blue Hens, will be attending the Steelers’ three-day rookie minicamp May 12-14 as a tryout player, he told Steelers Depot Wednesday.
He was the heart and soul of the Delaware defense, set the physical tone and was constantly around the football while making plays during his time with the Blue Hens. During his time at Delaware, Buchanan played in 52 games over five seasons, starting 29 career games.
Buchanan finished his career with 326 total tackles, 16.5 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, three interceptions, four passes defensed, two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries, and posted 150 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks in 2022. His 150 tackles led the FCS.
Thanks to his efforts in 2022, Buchanan was named a Buck Buchanan Award Finalist, which is given each year to the most outstanding defensive player in FCS college football. He was also named a Walter Camp and Associated Press first-team All-American in 2022.
Buchanan comes from an intriguing bloodline. His father, John, played football at Rutgers, while his great uncle, Joe Auer, played in the NFL with the Miami Dolphins. A cousin, Collin Olsen, played running back at Florida International.
Buchanan, who checks in at 5113, 228 pounds, profiles as a potential BUCK linebacker in the Steelers’ 3-4 scheme, one who could make an impact as a tackling machine on special teams. Currently, the Steelers’ depth chart has some room for guys to be added with inside linebackers Cole Holcomb, Elandon Roberts, Mark Robinson, Tanner Muse, Tae Crowder and Chappelle Russell as the lone inside linebackers on the roster.
Check out our draft profile on the Delaware standout, who tied a Delaware single-game record for tackles with 23 against Navy last season.
