A few players started training camp on the Steelers’ “Physically Unable to Perform” list. Among those players was cornerback and second round pick Senquez Golson.
Golson was a talented player for Ole Miss. He was always around the ball and competed successfully against wide receivers that were much bigger than he was. He has a knack to intercept the ball and looks to infuse some talent into a underperforming Steeler secondary.
This could turn into a major setback for the rookie. Keith Butler is the new defensive coordinator in town, but his defense won’t be all that different from that of Dick LeBeau. That means it will be just as difficult for rookies to pick up.
Golson appears to be the type of player that will put his head down and work to get to know his role in this defense, however, an injury that takes away playing time will certainly slow down that process. Golson needs all the repetitions he can get against players like Martavis Bryant and Antonio Brown.
Back in June ESPN reported that the All Pro wide receiver had this to say about the rookie defensive back: “Really like 27. Smooth guy, doesn’t really say too much. Seems like he’s focusing on his business. I’m liking what I’m seeing from him.”
High praise from one of the hardest workers in the NFL.
The Steelers have a bit more time and started camp early due to their participation in this year’s Hall of Fame game. Hopefully, that will allow Golson to overcome the injury and get his career started on the right foot.
The Steelers’ secondary is aching for a playmaker, and his past play indicates that Golson could be that player. However, you can only make plays if you’re on the field. For an undersized rookie in a complicated defense, injuries don’t help.
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