Steelers add kicker, 1 of nation’s sack leaders, ‘Monte the Mullet,’ 4 other undrafted free agents

The morning after completing a draft that has gotten rave reviews, the Pittsburgh Steelers announced the addition of seven undrafted free agents.

Of note are four-year collegiate starters at quarterback and center, a player who finished tied for third in FBS in sacks last season, some competition for veteran kicker Chris Boswell, a small-college defensive lineman, a speedy return man and a possible replacement for unsigned fullback Derek Watt.

The rookies the Steelers agreed to terms with:

Quarterback Tanner Morgan

Morgan won 33 games over five years as a starter at Minnesota, setting numerous school records. But while the 6-foot-2, 215-pound Morgan was selected to play in the East-West Shrine Bowl and Hula Bowl college all-star games, his arm and athleticism level aren’t considered high-end NFL-caliber.

Center Trevor Downing

The 6-3, 296-pound Downing became a starter during his 2019 redshirt freshman season at Iowa State, manning one full season each as the Cyclones’ left guard, right guard and center. He has been labeled a center throughout the draft process.

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Outside linebacker David Perales

Perales (6-2, 256) had 11 ½ sacks for Fresno State this past season, meaning the Steelers acquired two of the seven FBS players who had at least 11 sacks in 2022 (fourth-round pick Nick Herbig had 11).

Kicker B.T. Potter

Potter was the kicker the past four seasons for national powerhouse Clemson, finishing as the program’s career leader in field goals (73), extra points (234) and field goals of at least 50 yards (nine).

Defensive end James Nyamwaya

The 6-5, 305-pound Nyamwaya played at the prep school and Division III levels before spending last season at FCS Merrimack College. Known as a run-stopper, Nyamwaya had a three-sack game against Long Island.

Wide receiver/return specialist Jordan Byrd

Listed as a running back for San Diego State, the Steelers announced Byrd as a wide receiver. No matter, because if he’s going to make the team, it in all likelihood will be as a kick and punt returner. He had four career return touchdowns (three on kickoffs, one off a punt).

Fullback Monte Pottebaum

Known as “Monte the Mullet” because of his retro hairstyle, Pottebaum (6-0, 210) grew up cheering for the Steelers. A converted linebacker, Pottebaum was popular enough among Iowa coaches and teammates that he won team the Brett Greenwood Award (senior who best exemplifies the work ethic, spirit and total effort), the Coaches Appreciation Award for special teams and the Team Hustle Award for offense.

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