Steelers season goes all year long so whether we’re breaking down free agency signings, recapping the draft choices, or looking around for mentions of your Black & Gold we’ve got you covered. Here’s what’s being said about your Pittsburgh Steelers around the block.
Roethlisberger excited for new teammates
Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger spoke to Teresa Varley about the Steelers’ draft picks, the new free agency additions, and all the changes that have happened this offseason. He’s excited to work with Martavis Bryant but also with free agent signed WR’s Lance Moore and Darrius Heyward-Bey. He acknowledges all the changes that have happened this offseason but was glad to see some veterans re-signed to the team in the hopes the youth can mix with the veterans and produce results.
"“I think we have some veteran guys that are back, Troy Polamalu and Heath Miller and Ike Taylor and myself. I think it will be good to get some youth in here.” – Ben Roethlisberger"
Jordan Zumwalt had a head start with Steelers defense
As complicated and complex the Steelers defense is for the new guys to learn, it’s always important when you can get a leg up and a head start in the learning process. That’s exactly what sixth-round pick; LB Jordan Zumwalt has, according to ESPN’s Scott Brown. Zumwalt played under a similar defense at UCLA with former Steelers defensive quality control coach Lou Spanos. Hopefully the head start on the information can benefit Zumwalt when he has to miss part of OTA’s to finish his school obligations at UCLA. If Zumwalt is going to make an impression on this team, he’s going to have to know his stuff and be ready to take the field and make an impact.
2013 Steelers Draft Class under presser
With all the talk about how this 2014 draft class is expected to make some significant contributions on the field for the Steelers, the PPG’s Ron Cook reminds us that the pressure is still on the previous year’s draft class to make the big jump from year one to year two. Lots of pressure is on Le’Veon Bell to establish himself as the star the team wants and needs him to be. Jarvis Jones had minimal impact on the defense last year and this year he’s going to need to show tremendous improvement. That’s just a few of the picks from last year’s draft who will need to step up big time for the Steelers in 2014. Even Steelers GM Kevin Colbert agrees that the eyes will be on the 2013 class to help the team improve from the disappointing season.
"“I was asked the question, ‘Is this the most important draft class that you’re going to be faced with?’ I said, ‘No, I think last year’s is because you expect a big jump from year one to year two.’ We expect those kids to ascend and to help us win. We think they can.” – Kevin Colbert"
What are your thoughts, Steeler Nation?