Elijah Roberts, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' fifth-round draft pick, arrives with a strong family support system, particularly from his mother, Dr. Shanda Roberts, who has transformed her struggles with domestic abuse into advocacy through her nonprofit, Pain 2 Purpose. Elijah's impressive college career at Southern Methodist University, marked by significant defensive contributions, culminated in a successful NFL draft experience. His versatility on the defensive line is expected to be a key asset for the Buccaneers.

Shanda, a survivor, emphasizes the importance of utilizing one's voice, having founded her organization to help victims of domestic violence. Her journey, including overcoming personal challenges, is mirrored in Elijah's commitment to success on and off the field. As he embarks on his professional career, he is also determined to amplify his mother's message of resilience and empowerment.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have made a strategic addition to their defensive lineup by selecting Elijah Roberts with the 157th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Despite previously stating satisfaction with their edge rush rotation, the Bucs opted for the former SMU standout, who played a significant role in the Mustangs' journey to the ACC and a College Football Playoff appearance. Over four college years, Roberts excelled, amassing 17.5 sacks in his last two seasons alone. His slightly undersized frame will challenge traditional positional classifications, as he was labeled a general defensive lineman rather than a linebacker or edge rusher.

Todd Bowles, known for effectively utilizing smaller defensive linemen like Calijah Kancey, is expected to integrate Roberts into a plan that maximizes his potential. The Bucs' decision reflects their understanding of the evolving nature of defensive schemes, emphasizing the need for versatility in creating a successful pass rush from the interior. As Roberts joins a competitive defensive unit, the team's approach to his development will be crucial in determining both his immediate impact and long-term success in the NFL.

As the NFL Draft nears, the Pittsburgh Steelers are gearing up for significant decisions. In Dane Brugler's recent mock draft, the Steelers are projected to select quarterback Shedeur Sanders from Colorado with their first pick. Sanders, despite some faults, has impressed during his Top-30 visit with Pittsburgh. Additionally, Brugler suggests the Steelers will address their backfield speed by choosing running back Dylan Sampson from Tennessee in the third round, a strategic choice given their need to revitalize their rushing attack.

Further bolstering their defensive line, Brugler has Pittsburgh selecting defensive tackle Jordan Phillips from Maryland in the fourth round. Alongside this, the Steelers aim to enhance their edge rush depth with Elijah Roberts from SMU, potentially allowing for versatility in their defensive schemes. Brugler anticipates the team will also target speedy wide receiver Chimere Dike from Florida in the sixth round to complement their offensive strategy. Finally, they close out their draft with linebacker Carson Bruener from Washington, a nod to family ties and legacy in Pittsburgh.

The Green Bay Packers are hosting Elijah Roberts, an edge rusher from SMU, for an official pre-draft visit. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 285 pounds, Roberts transferred from Miami, where he spent three seasons as a backup. His performance at SMU was impressive, recording 17.5 sacks and 23.5 tackles for loss in his final two seasons, earning all-conference honors and leading his team in sacks. With a pass-rush win rate of 22.5 percent, Roberts showed significant potential as a dual-threat defensive end.

Despite his elite size, his athleticism is considered average, with a 40-yard dash time of 4.78 seconds. The Packers are eyeing him as they look to bolster their depth at the edge rusher position, especially with Kingsley Enagbare facing a contract year in 2025. Draft analysts project Roberts as a fourth or fifth-round pick, primarily due to his production and versatility on the field.