In his first chance to answer questions from the Pittsburgh media, new Steelers’ tight end Nick Vannett spent an extended period responding to various questions. Between commenting on his new team and his expectations for the season, Vannett offered many insights into his quick turnaround in joining the Pittsburgh Steelers.
“I came in the afternoon and spent four hours trying to learn the terminology and plays. I feel like I did pretty good for day one. The terminology is different so it’s like learning a new language.”
With Ben Roethlisberger out for the season due to elbow surgery, Vannett was asked about his first impressions of new Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph.
“We trained in the offseason right after the season,” Vannett said. “I spent two to three months throwing with him, working out with him. I kind of already knew him a little bit. I remember when it was made public- the trade- he hit me up. He was excited. When the defense was out there and I was next to him, I was watching the field with him. Trying to get a better feel. Having him help me, what I need to do, and what I should do on the play. That is going to continue.”
As Head coach Mike Tomlin often says, right now the Steeler season is like a moving train and new players just have to jump on and get acclimated as quickly as possible. Vannett was asked about what he needs to do in order to get up to speed.
“All I am going to do is keeping my eyes in the playbook, keep studying. I have to get up to speed by Monday. I don’t have a choice. They plan on playing me a good amount. I am not going to go in and have any doubt about what I am doing. I want to go in and feel comfortable. I can play fast, play confident and that is how you get results. I am going to do whatever it takes to feel comfortable by then. I am going to study the hell out of the playbook.”
Vannett also discussed what it was like becoming a member of the Pittsburgh Steelers, both as a player and a teammate.
“I feel the love right away. I am so happy to be here. It’s been a crazy 24 hours. I didn’t know what to expect in here. Everyone welcomed me with open arms. Everyone has been so friendly. I love the vibe here. I am excited to be a Steeler.”
Playing collegiately at Ohio State University, Vannett talked about growing up in the Columbus area and his thoughts on the Pittsburgh Steelers when he was younger.
“Growing up in Columbus, Ohio there is so many Steeler fans. All you see is Black and Yellow. It’s either that or Browns fans, and obviously I’m not going to be a Browns fan”
With Vance McDonald’s status in question for Monday’s game due to a shoulder injury and Xavier Grimble recently being placed on Injured Reserve, Vannett has a chance to make an immediate impact on the 2019 Pittsburgh Steelers.
“That is why I am so excited,” Vannett started. “It’s such a great opportunity for tight ends. Even the Heath Miller days, watching him thrive in this offense. Watching Vance thrive, Jesse James. They utilize their tight ends. That is something I am not used to where I have been, even in college. I can’t wait to show the player that I am in all aspects, run game, pass game, pass protection.”
Vannett’s entire question and answer session can be seen below.
.@N_Vannett81 talks to the media about coming to Pittsburgh, contributing and fitting in, getting a feel for the offense & more. pic.twitter.com/11zHnU03fi
— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) September 26, 2019