Steelers Undrafted Free Agent Rookie David Perales Has A Legitimate Chance Of Making The 53-Man Roster

With rookie minicamp officially underway, Pittsburgh Steelers' fans are getting their first look at high-profile draft picks such as Broderick Jones, Joey Porter Jr., and Nick Herbig in the black and gold. While these future stars have their spot on the 53-man roster assured, the same cannot be said for a majority of the other players who went undrafted or are with the team on a tryout basis. One undrafted player, former Fresno State defensive end, David Perales, may have a better chance of cracking the roster than what many realize. 

Perales had a very interesting collegiate football career, as he played at three different programs over the course of six years. He spent his final three seasons at Fresno State, where he was an absolute nightmare for opposing offenses, amassing 23 sacks to go along with 38 tackles for loss. At 6'3" and 255 pounds, he possesses the ideal size for a 3-4 outside linebacker. While he is far from a finished product as a pass rusher, his high motor and speed off the edge make him an intriguing option for a roster spot. 

Where Do The Steelers Currently Stand With Their Depth at OLB?

The Steelers are still in need of depth at outside linebacker behind TJ Watt and Alex Highsmtih. The addition of Herbig certainly helps, but the question still remains as to whether or not the team will eventually move him to more of an off-ball linebacker-type of role. From there, the team has former sixth-round pick, Quincy Roche, but not much else after that. Having quality defenders who possess the ability to get after the quarterback is perhaps the most pivotal component of an effective defense. Perales may fit this bill perfectly. 

Perales can improve his chances of making the Steelers roster in two ways, showing his ability to be a "well-rounded" outside linebacker and proving his willingness to contribute on special teams. There is no denying how talented he is at rushing the passer, but the former Fresno State standout will undoubtedly need to work on other aspects of his game such as pass coverage and edge-setting on run plays. 

Furthermore, as a backup outside linebacker, he will almost certainly be asked to contribute to Danny Smith's unit. Fortunately, Perales seems to possess the necessary attributes in both of these categories and will be able to contribute almost immediately in getting after the quarterback with his impressive bend off the edge. With a strong training camp and preseason, he will be a viable option to be a rotational pass rusher in 2023. 

Perales vs. Roche: Who Do You Prefer, Steeler Nation?  

Outside linebacker is a positional group that the Steelers may decide to add a veteran free agent to prior to the start of training camp. However, as the current group stands, it is likely that either Perales or Roche will have a favorable chance of being on the active roster in 2023.

Both are similar in that they are effective in rushing the passer, but lack the athleticism to be "three-down" players for the defense. Due to his experience in playing in the NFL, Roche may have a slight edge for now. With that being said, Perales has been doubted many times before. He will certainly not allow the odds being stacked against him deter him from chasing his dreams. 

Who do you prefer between the two, Steeler Nation? Would you like to see the team add a free agent at outside linebacker? Do you think there's any chance both Perales and Roche make the roster? Be sure to let us know in the comments! 

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