PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – Only the Indianapolis Colts, with a draft class including a starting quarterback and receiver, will have a bigger rookie impact in 2023 than the Pittsburgh Steelers.
CBS Sports ranking the Steelers second to Indy in terms of what drafted players will show themselves immediately in the NFL.
The first player mentioned wasn't the Steelers first or second selection, rather the third, picked 49th overall. CBS Sports reporter Chris Trapasso said Wisconsin defensive lineman Keeanu Benton is 'the next defensive front seven star on that franchise with a storied defensive history'. Trapasso then dittoed those comments when referring to 32nd overall pick, Penn State corner Joey Porter, Junior.
CBS Sports saying tight end Darnell Washington, who fell to the Steelers in the third round due to knee concerns 'will acclimate quicker than many expect because he can actually make many NFL players look small and lacking in the power department'.
First-round pick Broderick Jones as also mentioned, although they thought it might take some time for the offensive tackle to become a steady force on the outside. Also pointed out is seventh round corner Cory Trice, who also fell due to injury concerns.
No other teams in the AFC North were top ten in terms of a rookie class expected to make an impact right away. Steelers rookie mini-camp starts on Friday.
