Time for me to take a stab at the 2015 Pittsburgh Steelers rookie predictions. Take a look at who I think will be impact players, as well as disappointments as the 2015 season inches closer.
Steelers Rookie of the Year: Bud Dupree
I believe Senquez Golson and Doran Grant will play a role in the team's secondary, but maybe I believe in the current crop of Steelers CBs, especially a bounce back from Cortez Allen, and the team won't need to rely on Golson and Grant as much. Nonetheless, Dupree is an injury away from being a full-time starter. On top of his potential playing time in 2015, his ability to play the run, drop into coverage and rush the passer make him an all-around threat. He will be behind Arthur Moats on the depth chart, but don't think Dupree won't put his stamp on the 2015 Steelers' defense.
Drafted player most likely to be cut: Anthony Chickillo
This is strictly a numbers issue with Chickillo. The team has a plethora of outside linebackers currently on the roster in Jarivs Jones, James Harrison, Arthur Moats, Howard Jones, Shawn Lemon and Dupree. Chickillo will have to beat out more athletic players like Jones and Lemon to earn a spot on the roster spot, and I don't see that happening.
Undrafted rookie free agent most likely to make the team: B.J. Finney
The Steelers are still searching for a Doug Legursky type player who can play multiple positions in the interior of the offensive line, especially at center. Finney meets those criteria and could be the swing player the team needs to help plug holes along the offensive line with Cody Wallace for the 2015 season. Finney brings with him the feel-good story of a young man getting to play for his favorite team and one can't underestimate how much that motivates someone.
Sleeper Pick: L.T. Walton, DT
Chalk this pick up to the position he plays. The Steelers aren't deep along the defensive line, and when they essentially ignored the position until the 6th round, it showed Walton will have a chance to unseat either Clifton Geathers or Cam Thomas as the primary backup behind Cameron Heyward and Stephon Tuitt. Walton will have to prove his play in college can translate to the pro level, but if he can do what his scouting reports state in terms of keeping lane integrity, being able to shed blockers and being able to collapse the interior of the pocket, he should be able to turn some heads.
Most Playing Time: Senquez Golson
I believe there will several rookies who see significant playing time in 2015, but I expect Golson to be the primary nickel and dime defensive back on the team in 2015. With the amount of sub package football which has been shown in the past few seasons, there is a strong chance Golson sees the most playing time of all drafted rookies this season. Dupree could sneak away with this if there are any injuries to pass rushers, but assuming everyone stays healthy I'll give the nod to Golson on the back end.