Photo: David Hague – Inside Pittsburgh Sports
The Steelers officialy added seven undrafted rookies to their offseason roster, the team announced today. The seven rookies will join the 10 players selected in last week’s 2010 NFL Draft and all Steelers veterans at the team’s mandatory minicamp, this Friday through Sunday, April 30 – May 2.
The seven undrafted rookies include offensive guard Dorian Brooks, safety Da’Mon Cromartie-Smith, offensive tackle Kyle Jolly, fullback Demetrius Taylor, defensive tackle Cordarrow Thompson, safety Justin Thornton and center/guard A.J. Trump. The addition of the 17 rookies gives the Steelers a total of 89 players on their offseason roster.
LSU LT Ciron Black who was once considered a 2nd or 3rd round pick did not sign with the Steelers. It was reported yesterday that Black was joining the Steelers.
Fullback Demetrius Taylor from Virginia Tech, becomes the Steelers only true fullback on their roster. Taylor is massive at 6-0, 274 pounds and there are indications that the Steelers will implement a fullback into their offense this season.
2009 5th round pick Frank Summers spent the first two OTA practices as the Steelers primary fullback.
The Steelers are hopeful to develop Summers into reliable blocking fullback. During his limited time last season, Summers struggled with picking up blockers. He missed most of the 2009 season due to injury.