4 Steelers rookies with unrealistic expectations in 2021
By Andrew Falce
Quincy Roche
Out of the four names on this list, Quincy Roche has the best chance of being a significant contributor in his rookie season. This isn’t due to him being an amazing prospect or a talent that the Steelers can’t keep off the field, but the team has few options in terms of reserve edge rushers. Roche was a great value in the sixth round but expecting him to be a regular face on the defense and be productive is a stretch.
As of now, the hype Roche is getting in terms of the snaps he is set to receive is valid. The third edge rusher on the depth chart figures to rotate in 5-15 percent of the defensive snaps per game while also being a key special team’s option. As long as the roster stays as is, Roche is the most likely in line to receive these snaps. The issue is, will he be able to play effectively despite being a late-round pick. Odds say no, and while he could be in line to see some significant playing time, that may not translate to results.
Long-term Roche has the potential to be a great rotational player and potentially even a starter if he develops properly. The issue is, he may not be ready for that role as a rookie sixth-round pick. In all honesty, this is a position that could really use an established veteran to take the pressure off the starters and Roche (John Simon really makes sense here). He may see a significant number of sacks but expect Roche to deal with the struggles that should be expected from a sixth-round pick.