Steelers defensive linemen describe Larry Ogunjobi's offseason transformation as 'scary'

Pittsburgh Steelers defensive lineman Larry Ogunjobi has undergone a “scary” transformation this offseason, and is ready to feast on opposing quarterbacks in 2023.

“That is what he brings. A scary Larry Ogunjobi,” defensive lineman DeMarvin Leal said this week at OTAs. “Have you not seen him? Have you not seen the transformation?”

Ogunjobi, 29, is back in Pittsburgh after signing a three-year, $28 million deal in March. In 16 games in 2022, he recorded 48 tackles (25 solo), 11 quarterback hits, seven tackles for loss and one and a half sacks. The 2022 season presented challenges for Ogunjobi, who battled through injuries to his back, knee and toe.

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin even admitted they didn’t get the best version of Ogunjobi in 2022, who initially joined the team on a one-year, $8 million deal.

“I don’t believe that you did,” Tomlin said in March, via ESPN. “That’s the perspective that I have. I think that’s the perspective that he has. I think that makes both of us excited about his return and what that might mean… Just think that there’s benefit in him being here and knowing what to expect and having been a lap around the track. To go through an offseason where he’s not rehabilitating coming off of a surgery has exciting prospects, as well.”

Larry Ogunjobi is in the best shape of his life

Now fully healthy and in perhaps the best shape of his life, Ogunjobi expects to be far more disruptive in 2023.

“I think it’s just my work,” Ogunjobi said. “Just being able to train the way I wanted to train, get the things done I wanted to get done. That was really important to me. I am just looking forward to hitting the goals I set for myself and being in the best shape of my life and seeing how that looks for me.”

Fellow defensive standout Cameron Heyward added that Ogunjobi is more comfortable this offseason than last.

“I see a more comfortable Larry,” Heyward said. “I think we signed Larry a little bit later [last year] and Larry was coming off an injury… Think he is healthier, and I am excited. He has a calm demeanor, but he works his tail off. I am excited for him. Just don’t let that calm demeanor fool you.”