Pittsburgh Steelers: 3 Early breakout candidates for 2019 season

3. Chukwuma Okorafor, OT

At full strength, the Pittsburgh Steelers have featured an elite offensive line group over recent seasons. Perhaps the least healthy (or just available due to suspensions) player of that group, however, was Marcus Gilbert at right tackle. After missing most of the 2018 season, the Steelers elected to cut ties by trading him to Arizona, which now leaves a hole on the right side.

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In Gilbert’s absence last season, it was largely Matt Feiler that picked up the slack at right tackle, stepping up and stepping into the role and playing well enough. Heading into the 2019 season, however, the Steelers could potentially be looking for an upgrade from Feiler as they look to permanently replace Gilbert. That opens the door for 2018 third-round pick Chukwuma Okorafor.

Coming out of Western Michigan, Okorafor had solid experience but was still relatively new to football by comparison to his peers. Despite that, the physical tools that he possessed made him undeniable as an NFL prospect, which is why the Steelers pulled the trigger on him with the 92nd pick.

While Okorafor started just one game in lieu of an injured Feiler last season at right tackle, a year of development in one of the best offensive lines in the league should have tremendously helped him take a step forward in terms of his footwork deficiencies and need of a nasty streak on the field. Due to that, he should have a prime opportunity to take a step forward and take over at right tackle for Feiler.