NFL Draft Preview: Carson Bruener Aims to Make His Own Name at Inside Linebacker
Carson Bruener, the son of former Steelers first-round pick Mark Bruener, is following in his father’s footsteps in some ways—but forging his own path in others.
Carson always wanted to play football and attend the University of Washington, just like his dad. While those dreams came true, one part of the plan didn’t quite align: the position. He originally hoped to play tight end, but at 6-foot-1, his height—likely inherited from his mother, Traci—steered him toward linebacker instead.
“That 6-4 frame never happened,” Bruener joked, “but I’ve always loved playing linebacker.”
At the NFL Combine, Bruener explained how his passion for defense grew over time. While he played several offensive positions in high school and enjoyed scoring touchdowns, he found that the freedom and physicality of defense better suited his style.
Unlike his father, Carson isn’t projected as a high draft pick. Most evaluations expect him to be selected in the sixth or seventh round. He only became a full-time starter during his final year at Washington but made the most of it—leading the team with 104 tackles, three interceptions, five pass breakups, and a forced fumble.
“My instincts are what set me apart,” he said. “I can read plays and react quickly, covering sideline to sideline.”
Bruener said he would welcome the opportunity to join the Steelers. His father, now a scout for the team who covers the Pacific Northwest, has intentionally kept his distance during Carson’s draft process. At the Combine and earlier at the Shrine Bowl, Carson interviewed with Steelers scouts—but not his father.
“He didn’t want to interfere,” Carson said. “He gave me space to experience the process for myself.”
Carson hasn’t seen any of the scouting reports his dad may have written for the team. “He gives me tips here and there,” he said, “but I don’t know what’s in the report—and I haven’t asked.”
Across five seasons at Washington, Bruener endured coaching changes and highs and lows, including the team’s national championship appearance in 2023 and a tougher 6-7 season as a senior. Still, he emerged as a leader and key contributor, earning a Combine invite and running a 4.58-second 40-yard dash.
He’s ranked 17th among inside linebackers by NFL.com. With only a few players at his position expected to go early, his draft status is uncertain—but he’s ready to contribute however he can.
“I bring value as a linebacker and on special teams,” he said. “I can even long snap if needed. My mom always told me to learn how.”
That skill, too, was her idea—not Mark’s.
“She saw long snappers have long careers,” Bruener said. “She told me, when linebacker days end, long snapping might be the next chapter. That advice goes all the way back to high school.”
