Donte Kent out to prove to the Steelers he can do it all

When a player is selected in the 7th Round of an NFL Draft, the expectations on them making the team and being an impact player are low. Nonetheless, that doesn’t mean these players who are late round additions can’t become a contributor on the team in some capacity. For these late round picks, it truly is a case of “the more you can do”.

For Pittsburgh Steelers 7th Round pick Donte Kent, he spent the entire rookie minicamp showing how versatile he is both as a special teams player and defensive back.

“I’m a versatile player,” said Kent, a defensive back from Central Michigan. “I can play the inside position. I can also play the outside position. I can also play nickel. I can do punt return. I could be a gunner on punt. You can throw me in on kickoff as well. You can throw me back deep on kick return.

“So, I think I bring a lot of elements that I could contribute to the team in a positive way. And that’s what I look forward to doing and earning everybody’s respect in the locker room.”

Kent will have every opportunity to prove himself, especially as a drafted player, and whether he can beat out veteran special teamers has yet to be seen. Getting drafted and being on the roster was the first step, but the next step is learning the playbook and being able to execute when called upon.

“I think the more you know, the better chance you have to get on the field,” said Kent. “And that’s something that I value. That’s something that I take pride in doing.”

If fans are looking at this situation through a realistic lens, they’ll know Kent’s way onto the 53-man roster is by way of special teams. Being a quality depth piece in the defensive backfield is one thing, but being able to play quality special teams is what could get Kent a helmet on game days this season.

“It’s extremely important,” said Kent. “I value special teams. That’s something that’s a way for me to earn respect in the locker room. That’s the way for me to get on the field. That’s something I take pride in doing, that’s something that I want to do. So, as many special teams that I can get on, that’s something I’m going to try to do.”

Will Kent be able to beat out the likes of players like Beanie Bishop or Brandin Echols? That’s a tall task for any player, but if Kent can become the team’s primary return man, in some capacity, and also contribute on kicking teams he will provide value which will be difficult to deny.

Be sure to stay tuned to SCN for the latest news and notes surrounding the Steelers as they prepare for the rest of the offseason and get ready for training camp.