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By Jeremy Hritz
Today is the day, and the Steelers finally report to training camp, even though it is not following the traditional path to St. Vincent’s in Latrobe. The real work of building the 2021 team is about to begin, and the enthusiasm is peaking. Here are my Study Notes for July 21st:
- The Steelers finally locked up all of their 2021 NFL Draft picks with the signing of 3rd round selection, Kendrick Green. Green waited an inordinate amount of time before signing his deal, as he was trying to achieve the highest dollar amount possible for his draft slot predicated off of others selected in the third round, not for any malicious or devious reason. Many, including myself, are predicting Green to be the starter at center come week 1, and it is good to see the business side of this wrapped up.
- Following along with the theme of offensive line, the Steelers signed Tackle Chaz Green, originally a 3rd round selection of the Dallas Cowboys. Green most recently played for the Indianapolis Colts, where he was abused by TJ Watt when they played the Steelers. Green is a below average tackle in the NFL, and I’m not sure what the purpose of bringing him into camp for is other than providing another body. There is still work to be done at the tackle position, and it cannot stop at Green.
- Speaking of Watt, can his mega-deal get done in the next two weeks? The Steelers like to cross these items off their lists prior to the start of the regular season, so I am sure they are prioritizing this negotiation.
- Malik Hooker continues to be rumored to sign with the Steelers as a free agent, and he is being hounded on social media to come to Pittsburgh. Hooker is being a good sport and is bantering with fans, giving them shreds of hope that he possibly could be signing, but there is nothing concrete yet. Hooker has a concerning injury history, which makes this signing a possibility, and if it’s going to happen, it will probably occur in a day or two. Hooker would provide quality depth at the safety position.
- Don’t expect a return of Steven Nelson anytime soon. Yesterday, John Clayton reported that he believed Nelson would be returning to the Steelers, and later in the evening, Nelson indicated this was not accurate. This led to foolishness on Twitter that ultimately resulted in Nelson deleting his Twitter account. This ship has sailed: Cam Sutton is the starter opposite Joe Haden. Have a good career, Steven.
- Check out Ray Fittipaldo’s chat from yesterday’s Pittsburgh Post Gazette for some great insight from a great Pittsburgh beat write. You can access it HERE.
- Finally, with the signing of Ingram, the Steelers had to release players to make room, and that included tackle Jarron Jones, and OLB, Calvin Bundage. We profiled Bundage on the Study a few times, and wish him luck in his pursuit of a spot in the NFL. Good luck Calvin!
That is all for today! Camp is finally here. And all is right with the world.
Jeremy