The Pittsburgh Steelers Draft Notre Dame Defensive End Stephon Tuitt 46th Overall

Stephon Tuitt almost never came to Notre Dame. Following a late cycle flip to Georgia Tech it looked like the 5-star defensive end would be staying in-state for his college career. However, the Irish coaching staff got him to switch back to Notre Dame. Following a 3-year career in South Bend he now leaves as one of the school's all-time top sack leaders.

Tuitt played sparingly as a true freshman in 2011 but exploded onto the scene as a sophomore on Notre Dame's march to the National Championship. A sports hernia slowed him down towards the latter part of that season and ultimately led to off-season surgery and some weight problems coming into last season. Nevertheless, Tuitt remained a force at times and flashed his considerable talent in games like an effort against USC at home.

As a true junior he leaves Notre Dame quite young and with enormous potential. Congratulations to Stephon and his family on achieving this personal goal.

You can read more about Tuitt via the SB Nation Pittsburgh Steelers website Behind the Steel Curtain.