"A Lot Better": Steelers Rookie Gennings Dunker Is Already Noticing Big Difference At The NFL Level

The Pittsburgh Steelers had a heavy 2026 NFL Draft haul that included 10 total selections. Once again, the front office was focused on building in the trenches and took an offensive lineman in the first round for the third time in four years. Additionally, Gennings Dunker was picked up on Day 2 with the team hoping that he can one day translate into a starting guard at the professional level. It will take some time to get adjusted, and the good news is that the current roster has a solid amount of depth so the coaching staff isn't necessarily going to be forced to starting him right off of the bat in 2026.

There has been some shuffling going on with the big men upfront, which would prove that the Steelers aren't simply going to give Dunker or Max Iheanachor a top job right away. The duo could end up earning a spot in the lineup; however, it will take several months for that kind of scenario to play out due to the fact that there are other individuals who are likely viewed as being more ready.

Often times, rookies will struggle a bit when they first start working out with NFL veterans. There is a much difference speed to the game compared to the collegiate level, so it is always an adjustment when going through drills and practices early on. This is something that Dunker and his fellow first-year players are currently going through as offseason workouts progress.

In a recent interview with the third-round pick that was posted to the Steelers' YouTube page, the Iowa product wasn't shy about admitting that he is having a little bit of a tough time with just how quick some of his new teammates are.

"These guys are a lot faster than college linebackers," Dunker said. "They're pretty quick, so maybe taking a little different angles because they're definitely a lot better athletes than me, so, yeah."

Dunker's comments aren't something to worry about just yet, but it will be interesting to see when training camp practices are open to the public if he is getting beat often. On certain run plays, guards are responsible for getting to the second level of the defense to open up holes downfield. It seems like Dunker has already noticed how difficult it is to beat quicker linebackers to the spot, and he is adjusting to getting better in this area while he develops as a rookie.

Dunker quickly worked his way into the favor of Steelers fans simply because of how he looks and talks. It's almost like he was meant to play in Pittsburgh, but those rave reviews could easily be forgotten about if he doesn't adjust to the speed of the NFL. It's likely that he will get some kind of chance to prove himself come the regular season; however, it will be a very important training camp for him to get quicker.

Running the ball is going to be crucial for the team and it has two capable ball carriers to do so. The interior part of the offensive line will be important on many different occasions, and specifically the red zone. Getting to the next level and knocking down some linebackers will be pivotal, so Dunker is going to have to really improve upon this part of his game in the coming months.

Steelers Are Really Hoping To Develop Dunker And Iheanachor

Spending another first-round selection, as well as a third, on two offensive linemen is something that Pittsburgh would have hoped wasn't necessary in 2026, specifically because of the recent investment. However, if the two newcomers in Iheanachor and Dunker can play at a high level, the front office might have finally accomplished its goal of fortifying the front. This would go a very long way in building back up an offensive unit that needs to be a lot more dominant.

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