Every rookie needs time to adjust to the NFL, but eventually, they have that game that justifies the Steelers for drafting them
Every year the Steelers welcome a new crop of rookies to the NFL in hopes of uncovering the next star in the league. While most rookies take some time to develop, they eventually have that moment, that game, where it all clicks. The game slows down and suddenly each player proves that they belong in the league. This game can occur in their rookie year, but it could take longer. That said, the moment they achieve this game, there is no turning back.
Think about JuJu Smith-Schuster’s game against Detroit, where he logged 7 receptions for 193 yards and a TD. Or who could forget about T.J. Watt’s first outing against Cleveland, when he logged 2 sacks to begin the year. Go back to 2004 when a rookie Willie Parker went for 102 yards and 2 TDs against the Bills. These games are unpredictable and usually surprises, but the fact of the matter is, they happen.
Hopefully this year, the Steelers see some of their rookies have their breakout games sooner than later. Even if they have to wait past their rookie season though, as long as they have that game is promising enough. Will every Steelers rookie have their breakout game with the Steelers? No, and even more so, some of these rookies won’t even have that performance in their career.
Yes, there is a lot of projection here, but take this as a projection of how long you may have to wait before seeing these rookies take on a significant role. Looking at the schedule this year and in the coming years, these seem like the most likely games for the Steelers rookies to break out.