The Pittsburgh Steelers surprised some by selecting center Kendrick Green in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft. Although he was seen as a raw product coming out of Illinois, he was thrown into the fire immediately. Pittsburgh didn't have much choice, as their offensive line was suddenly depleted. Green finished his rookie season with 15 starts, all at center.
Pittsburgh Steelers center, Kendrick Green (#53) takes snaps pregame before the season opener in Buffalo in 2021. | Twitter: @JSKO_PHOTO
The results weren't all positive, as his flaws coming into the NFL were only magnified in 2021. His short arms will always present a challenge for him, but other things like his issues snapping the ball were concerning. Now, heading into his second year, his future with Pittsburgh seems a bit murky. Many fans suggested a potential move to guard for Green, where his flaws wouldn't be as prevalent.
After it was reported that Green was indeed taking reps at guard in OTA's, it became clear that Green and Kevin Dotson are in a battle for the starting left guard position. Not only does Dotson have a year on Green in experience, but he's also been a guard for the duration of his career. While Green has gone back and forth between the two positions, that alone gives Dotson the upper hand. Additionally, Dotson had an injury-plagued 2021 season, which somewhat explains some of his struggles. So just what does the future of Kendrick Green look like in black and gold?
For now, it seems he won't be a starter to begin the season. Mason Cole and James Daniels seem to have the center and right guard positions locked up, while Dotson seems to be the likely starter at LG as mentioned. With that being said, injuries and other things happen, so Green will get his chance at some point in 2022. A year of sitting on the bench and developing may benefit Green and his future, especially while sitting behind the likes of James Daniels. Daniels has already earned rave reviews throughout the organization since signing with the team just a few months ago. The Iowa product seems to be the perfect guy for Green to learn from for a variety of reasons.
Center, Mason Cole (left), and guard James Daniels (right), participate in phase two of the voluntary off-season workout program, Tuesday, May 17, 2022 at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex. | Photo via Karl Roser
Daniels has established himself as a savvy veteran and has become a very good interior lineman as well. He's also gone back and forth between center and guard in his career, something Green can learn from. Green will get his chance again, as it's only a matter of time. By then though, improvements must be made in order to secure a future with the team.
What do you guys think about Green's prospects for this season? Do you see him as an integral part of the team's future? Let us know what you guys think below in the comments section!
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