3 undrafted free agent rookies who could make the Steelers roster
By Tommy Jaggi
This is the time of year when we like to think a little outside the box. As of now, we have a relatively good picture of who will ultimately end up on the Pittsburgh Steelers final roster. However, here are three free agents who have a chance to crack the final 53 if everything goes their way this offseason:
Dravon Askew-Henry, S
It’s no surprise that Dravon Askew-Henry went undrafted this year. The safety out of West Virginia was a long way down the list of safety prospects in this years’ NFL Draft class. Askew-Henry sat out the entire 2016 season with a torn ACL and has been playing college football since 2014.
Originally listed at 6’0” tall and 202 lbs, Dravon came it at just under 5’10 1/2” and 196 lbs at his Pro Day. Fortunately for Askew-Henry, the Pittsburgh Steelers have a vacancy at the safety position and there me be a backup safety role up for grabs.
Garrett Brumfield, OG
Brumfield was a senior who played in 45 games at LSU. The Steelers actually used a pre-draft visit on Brumfield, so there was obviously interest on their part to begin with.
Almost everyone’s job is secure on the offensive line, but the final spot (previously occupied by the often-injured Jerald Hawkins) is up for the taking. The Steelers have a quality backup guard in B.J. Finney, but it will likely come down to a battle between Hawkins, Brumfield, and 7th round rookie, Derwin Gray, for the final roster spot on the offensive line.
P.J. Locke, S/DB
For much of the same reasons as Dravon Askew-Henry, P.J. Locke has a chance to make this team. The Steelers are dangerously thin at the safety position as they failed to draft a safety of go after any big names in free agency.
P.J. Locke started 31 games as a safety/defensive back hybrid for Texas and displayed decent athleticism at his Pro Day with a 36 inch vertical jump and 40-yard dash time of 4.57s. Locke lacks a true position in the secondary, but may be able to find a home at safety for the Steelers this year if all goes well.