Predicting which Steelers 2021 rookies will have successful NFL careers

P Pressley Harvin

It might seem a bit unusual to place a 7th round draft selection in the number one slot. Then again, he is a punter. Once the Steelers find a punter, it’s not unusual for the punter to stick around for five seasons or more. Even then, if a team lets one go, they generally find employment with another organization. Teams normally do not draft kickers and punters often because many get recycled throughout the league. Case in point in the 2021 draft besides Harvin Cincinnati drafted placekicker Evan McPherson the only two specialty players selected.

In Pittsburgh’s case, The Steelers released Jordan Berry had before the start of the 2020 season. Then they signed Dustin Colquitt. After five weeks, they cut Colquitt and resigned Berry. Colquitt did not pass muster, and with no better options, the Steelers re-signed Berry.

So they Drafted Presley Harvin to compete for the starting position. The underlying thought is the young rookie should win the starting position. The Steelers feel he has a strong leg and has room to get much better as time goes on.  Plus, veteran Jordan Berry is already on his second stint with the Steelers. It’s not beyond the pale to see Harvin have a long career with the Steelers.

Ultimately, were are still two and a half months from training camp. It may be premature to make projections, especially since injuries can profoundly affect whether someone gets cut or stays. Or the player who looked good on game film turns out to be a flop. We will know how well the Steelers drafted as the 2021 season comes to a close. Now, as to which teams had the best draft and the worst draft in 2021? Whoever hoists the Lombardi trophy at the end of the season will likely answer that question.