The Pittsburgh Steelers have traditionally been a team that hasn’t asked their rookies to step into big roles right away, having players like DL Cameron Heyward and LB Lawrence Timmons sit behind experienced veterans and take time to develop before hitting the field as full-time starters. However, Pittsburgh’s approach with its rookies has changed in recent seasons, having guys like RB Najee Harris, QB Kenny Pickett, and WR George Pickens hit the field right away or shortly into in their first NFL seasons.
Playing right away is the first step for any rookie to qualify for winning the Offensive or Defensive Rookie of the Year Award, along with putting together an impressive season as they transition from the college game.