Pittsburgh Steelers: Chris Steele, CB, USC
2022 is going to be a season of transition for the Pittsburgh Steelers. For the first time since 2004, Ben Roethlisberger won’t be their starting quarterback as the veteran decided to retire following the 2021 campaign.
With him out, the Steelers added free agent Mitchell Trubisky, a former first-round pick of the Chicago Bears who spent last season as the No. 2 quarterback behind Josh Allen with the Buffalo Bills. Pittsburgh also added Kenny Pickett in the draft, keeping him in Pittsburgh where he played collegiately.
Pickett was the only quarterback taken in Round 1 this season and could end up starting right away. But no matter who starts between Pickett or Trubisky, the Steelers’ defense will be what makes or breaks this season.
Even the past couple of years with Big Ben, Pittsburgh has leaned heavily on the defense but they too are going through some changes. Stephon Tuitt recently announced his retirement and they aren’t bringing back Joe Haden at corner.
With some new bodies at the position, Chris Steele could end up finding a role as a rookie. Steele is a 6-foot-1, 190-pounder who had three picks over the past two seasons and broke up 12 passes as well. The room is crowded but he has the skill to push his way into a job.