PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – It was something Steelers GM Kevin Colbert said about the middle of the offensive line on Monday.
"Usually the centers, there aren't a lot of centers in a given draft, but we feel good there's quality centers in this draft that we think are starter capable, and it's unusual for that position," Colbert said.
It's that the it's plural that grabs your attention. Landon Dickerson (Alabama), Creed Humphrey (Oklahoma) and Josh Myers (Ohio State) are the consensus top three. After that is a group that includes Penn State's Michal Menet and Pitt's Jimmy Morrissey.
Most will overlook Morrissey as an option for the Steelers, but that would be the norm for the Philadelphia native. Morrissey has been overlooked his entire football career.
The story well known in Pitt circles, no division one offers. Panthers gave Morrissey a chance as a walk-on. After redshirting his freshman year, he won the starting job in his first season and never let it go. Three All-ACC teams and 47 games later, Morrissey left Pitt with the Burlsworth Trophy going to the most outstanding player to begin as a walk-on.
While Morrissey is a great example on so many levels for his perseverance, leadership, academics (4-time academic all-conference). He would take examples from others.
"I think I've had some good role models here, starting with Brian O'Neil (Vikings offensive tackle)," Morrissey said. "He really showed me the way in how to prepare, take care of the little things because they pay huge dividends on the back end. I think the combination of my consistent preparation has helped me improve consistently."
"I think I already have a pro routine, but I know there are a lot of things I will have to improve upon when I get to the league. I think the combination of my preparation and my consistent routine definitely have helped me sustain my level of play."
Morrissey not blessed with obvious physical gifts, he does have NFL size. He's 6'3", 305 pounds and believes he can show more than what you would see in a sprint, shuttle drill or long jump.
"Show them my intangibles," Morrissey said of impressing the NFL. "Things you won't be able to see on the field. Being able to pick up an offense quick, going out and executing that. Which I hope I showed at the Senior Bowl learning the playbook in a night and going out and playing all three interior positions."
"Definitely show my leadership, my football IQ and my savviness with the game of football. How I prepare and being able to communicate that to these front office guys and all these coaches."
He has precious little time left to make his case, but says he just wants a chance.
"Whether I'm drafted in the first round of the seventh round, it's not going to affect the way I work or prepare for this upcoming season," Morrissey said.
It never has. Why would it now? Does the story continue in Pittsburgh?
Join 93.7 The Fan all day on Thursday for NFL Draft coverage including the announcement of the Steelers first round pick, plus coverage Friday and Saturday.
