STEELERS 101

Lost in the news of the potential program crippling sanctions placed on Penn State today by the NCAA was the fact that the Pittsburgh Steelers inked first-round pick draft David DeCastro to a four-year contract. This is understandable, as the unprecedented penalties of a $60 million fine, loss of scholarships, a four-year bowl ban and vacating all football victories since 1998 (dropping Joe Paterno from first to eighth all-time) were the talk of Southwest Pennsylvania.

With this deal in place, the Steelers will have all of their rookies in camp on opening day. Of course, none will be more important that DeCastro, a mauler with a nasty disposition and enough ability to come in and compete day one. Big, 6-5, 316 pounds, he is coming from the pro-style offense and is already experienced at protecting a franchise quarterback.

The Stanford tackle, selected No. 24 overall in the 2012 NFL Draft, will be playing a bit of catch-up when camp opens, as he missed all of the OTA sessions due to NCAA rules prohibiting players from universities on a quarters schedule from attending these activities.

While many have him penciled in as the day-one starter at right guard, he will face a challenge for either Ramon Foster or Doug Legursky at the position throughout camp. However, with his pedigree and ability, he should be able to seize the position early in his career and join center Maurkice Pouncey as solidifying components for seasons to come.

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Tags: David DeCastro, Doug Legursky, Football, NCAA, NFL, Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh Steelers, Ramon Foster

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