Steelers Burning Question: What’s in a number change?

Sutton Smith was as productive as any edge defender entering the 2019 NFL Draft. In his sophomore and junior seasons Smith put up 30 sacks and had 58.5 tackles for loss. During the draft process Smith was labeled as being undersized and many wondered if the success he had at Northern Illinois would translate to the next level.

Smith has went on record, saying he is willing to do whatever any team needs or wants him to do. So far in the early stages of Rookie Mini Camp and the start OTA’s, Mike Tomlin has taken Smith as a man of his word. The rookie has received snaps at both running back and as a full back.

Sounds familiar, one of Behind The Steel Curtains’ favorites, Roosevelt Nix took a similar path. Coming out of Kent State, another MAC school, Rosie was also an under sized edge defender that had his share of success in college. He bounced around with the Falcons and Browns before signing with the Steelers. He now finds himself making holes for James Conner and the Steeler offense, well that and blowing up ball carriers on special teams play...I did mention he was a fan favorite.

I was doing some browsing this week and came across how Sutton Smith switched from No. 51 to No. 42. It was verified by looking at the Steelers team page. What does it mean?

Does Rosie now have serious camp competition?

Is this a situation that position flexibility allows Coach Tomlin some maneuverability on the 53?

Is this just coincidence that Smith wanted No. 42 and it has nothing to do with reps at full back or even at running back?

Is it just Plan B, in the event of an injury?

Tell us what you think in the comment section and as always Go Steelers!!!!