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Update: David Todd of ESPN 970 Radio is reporting that Hawthorne had bone chips removed from his knee. Although this could keep him out a couple of weeks, this should be a relief to many Steeler fans in light of recent "luck" with knee injuries.
Mark Kaboly of the Trib is reporting via Twitter that Steelers 2013 fifth round pick Terry Hawthorne was on crutches after the second day of OTA's nursing a right knee injury.
Was told #Steelers rookie CB Terry Hawthorne was on crutches with apparent right knee discomfort.
— Mark Kaboly (@MarkKaboly_Trib) May 22, 2013
Hawthorne battled injuries while playing at Illinois, and they are part of the reason the once highly touted prospect fell to Pittsburgh in the fifth round. Hopefully nothing too serious and the kid will be back on the field soon (preferably before the start of training camp).
Hawthorne is expected to compete for the fourth CB on the depth chart, providing a physical presence at corner and, if Carnell Lake is to be believed, a future replacement for Ike Taylor.
The Steelers are hoping Hawthorne can provide depth at the position that will start a player other than the previous year's starter for the sixth straight year. Veteran Keenan Lewis signed with New Orleans this offseason, pushing Cortez Allen into the starting role. Newly signed William Gay and Curtis Brown and are likely the team's nickel and fourth corner, respectively.