Rookie Kent May Be A Sleeper At The Steelers Slot Position

Photo: Karl Roser/Pittsburgh Steelers

Presumably, second-year defensive back Beanie Bishop is the leading favorite to secure the Steelers' starting slot corner position. However, one name that has emerged as potential competition during OTAs is rookie Donte Kent.

During his tenure at Central Michigan, Kent developed a reputation for being both a playmaker and a risk-taker on the field. In his senior year, he recorded 53 tackles and defended nine passes. Additionally, on special teams, he accumulated 217 return yards, including one returned for a touchdown.

Kent’s versatility makes him a strong candidate for a spot on the Steelers' active roster, particularly given the team’s emphasis on special teams contributors. Yet, his adaptability extends beyond special teams—he is capable of playing both at nickel and as an outside corner. During his collegiate career with the Chippewas, Kent logged 2,049 snaps as an outside corner and 856 as a slot/nickel corner, according to Pro Football Focus.

At this stage, the starting nickel position is Bishop’s to lose. However, despite Kent entering only his rookie season, he may be the one player on the roster capable of providing Bishop with legitimate competition throughout training camp.