The Steelers selected University of Illinois center/guard Kendrick Green in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft on Friday night, providing them a versatile player who will bolster their offensive line.
Green was a three-year starter for the Illini, logging 29 starts at guard and four at center. He earned All Big Ten and Second Team All America honors in 2020. He has quick feet and, as an accomplished high school wrestler, is difficult for defenders to shed once he engages them. At a news conference to discuss Green’s selection, Pittsburgh offensive line coach Adrian Klemm said Green was attractive for his leadership qualities (“he was the alpha of that line at Illinois”) and because he fit the description of players who could “change the demeanor” of the Steelers up front.