Summary
Yahya Black, age 23, enters Year 2 as a rotational DL on Pittsburgh’s west coast defense with 38.2% defensive snap share in 2025, ascending trend. He logged 10 solo tackles, 0 TFLs, 0 sacks, 0 INTs, 1 PD, and 2 FFs across 17 games in a stable snap count role with 122 dynasty trade value.
Projection Rationale
Black’s 38.2% defensive snap share indicates a stable role within Pittsburgh’s 3-4 scheme under Teryl Austin. The west coast system, brought by Arthur Smith, prioritizes play-action and zone coverage, which suits Black’s pass-rush profile as a 336-pound DL. His 3 pressures and 2 hurries in advanced stats suggest some upside, but the stable snap count removes matchup variance.
Injury Risk
Black practiced in full for the Week 15 injury report, removing concern for short-term injury risk. As a DL, he has 2 FFs on record, which is a modest risk.
Opportunity Notes
Black’s snap count remains stable at 38.2% despite some dips, indicating a secure role within Pittsburgh’s rotation. Arthur Smith’s west coast system prioritizes play-action and zone coverage, which benefits Black’s pass-rush skills. The 122 dynasty trade value reflects his clear role and ascending trend.
Scheme Fit Analysis
Arthur Smith’s west coast system, combined with Teryl Austin’s 3-4 scheme, creates a zone-heavy defense where Black can thrive as a rotational DL. Press-heavy zone coverage and disciplined gap control reduce pressure on Black to make tackles for loss or sacks.
Trend Assessment
Rising
Pittsburgh’s 38.2% defensive snap share for Black in 2025 shows an ascending trend, with a stable average snap count despite a Week 7 dip to 17.0% and Week 16 dip to 30.0%.
Ceiling / Floor
Ceiling tracks near 2025’s 10 solo tackles and 0 TFLs, given his stable 38.2% defensive snap share. Floor tracks near 5.0 dynasty score, given the ascending trend and 122 dynasty trade value.
Comparable Player
His role as a rotational DL with press-heavy zone coverage draws comparisons to Jonathan Allen from 2021–2023 Washington — similar age, similar third-line DL minutes, similar pressure-avoiding technique.