PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – It was the only Big 10 player the Steelers did not draft, and it was their final selection. Defensive back Donte Kent from Central Michigan rounds out the Steelers 2025 Draft class.
“I'm just happy that I'm a PA baby, and I feel that PA baby stays in PA,” the Harrisburg native Kent said. “That's an exciting moment for me to go play for the Steelers. But my emotions were through the roof throughout this whole draft, just keeping God first, staying positive. It all paid off, and I'm so excited.”
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin used a phrase he’s used before when describing seventh-round defensive backs, that he’s a Swiss Army knife.
Kent played five seasons at Central Michigan with 234 tackles (171 solo), six tackles for loss, 46 passes defensed with two interceptions in 53 games. He’s 5’11”, 185 pounds and believes he could be used on the outside or in the slot, special teams is likely where he cuts his teeth.
“I'm a versatile player,” Kent said. “I could play the nickel position. I also could play the cornerback position as well. But not only that, I feel I’m a football player that could return punt. I could come in be a corner special teams player. You could throw me back deep as a kick returner as well. I just want to come in and do whatever I could do to contribute to the team in a positive way.”
Kent said he had little communication with the Steelers and had no idea they would take him. Never met with them but said Mike Tomlin was at the Big 33 High School All-Star Game, he said he knew he caught the Steelers head coach’s eye when he was in high school.
Kids growing up in Harrisburg are in an NFL rooting triangle between the Steelers, Eagles and Ravens. Kent actually rooted for none of those teams.
“I actually was a Chicago Bears fan,” Kent said, “but I’m a Steelers fan now!”
“Now, where are those Towels at?”