What each Steelers rookie will struggle with during 2021

Steelers Quincy Roche

Problem: Run Defense

While Norwood as a pick was a bit puzzling, Quincy Roche was just the opposite. The former Temple and Miami product is quite the technician as a pass rusher despite not being an elite athlete. His size is a little on the smaller size, which makes him a more natural fit in a 3-4 defense as an edge/outside linebacker. Unfortunately, his lack of size may be what causes most of his year one struggles.

Given his shorter stature and lighter frame, it will be a challenge for Roche to hold up against pro-level offensive tackles in the run game. Former Steelers outside linebacker Bud Dupree had no such issue, as his bigger frame allowed him to anchor on run plays and power through tackles. Even when his pass-rushing skills were in question, Dupree was still a good run defender for this team.

While the team wants their edge rushers to be sack artists first and foremost, being able to hold up against the run is still important. While no one is expecting Roche to be a huge contributor in year one (his ceiling is as a number three reserve player), he can increase his playing time by being both a good pass rusher and decent run stopper. More than likely, he will need a full offseason to add some mass before becoming a truly good run defender, but for now, if he wants to see significant snaps, improving his run defense is key.