4 Steelers rookies with unrealistic expectations in 2021

While the Steelers will certainly see some contributions from their rookie class, these four prospects have way too high of expectations as of now.

The Steelers landed nine solid draft prospects during the 2021 NFL draft. While quite a few of these rookies will see some playing time this season, there seems to be some word being spread about how much of an impact this class will have right away.

Najee Harris is a slam dunk starter assuming he can stay healthy, but after that, it would be wise to temper expectations. Here are the four Steelers draft picks that have too high of expectations on them right now.

Tre Norwood

While Tre Norwood was only a seventh-round draft pick, some murmurs have already been circling that he will not only make the roster but have some sort of an impact on the defense this season. While it isn’t impossible for a late-round pick to make an impact, Norwood’s rumors seem more based on his position flexibility as opposed to his actual skills as a player. Considering he was the only secondary member drafted in a year with a hold specifically at slot cornerback, many seem to have prematurely labeled him the presumptive slot starter.

The issue is Norwood has no defining traits that make him a good lock to even make the roster let alone start. He had decent individual stats last year, but Oklahoma fielded one of the worst defenses in college. Add in his lack of overall athleticism and there seems to be better roster options available, and the argument could be made that Shakur Brown or Donovan Stiner have just as good of a chance to make the roster and contribute. At the end of the day, expect Norwood to be battling for a roster spot, not a starting spot on this 2021 roster.