Since the new collective bargaining agreement in 2011, the signing of rookies to their first NFL contract has become nothing more than a footnote. No longer are rookies holding out for the biggest rookie contract in league history, but each player is given a slotted amount of money based on what round they were selected.
The Steelers were one of the teams who had yet to sign any of their members of the 2020 NFL Draft class, but not anymore. The team agreed to terms with third-round pick Alex Highsmith on a four-year deal, marking the first deal with their new additions.
Rookie contracts are rolling in fast with reporting dates coming up. A trio of third-rounders that have agreed to terms on their deal, per source: Packers TE Josiah Deguara, Cardinals OT Josh Jones and Steelers LB Alex Highsmith.
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) July 21, 2020
Highsmith, a former walk-on at Charlotte, became a star in his final season there, recording 15 sacks and 21.5 tackles for a loss. He is expected to compete with Ola Adeniyi and Tuzar Skipper for a role backing up star outside linebackers T.J. Watt and Bud Dupree.
The Steelers still have five other remaining draft picks unsigned, including top pick Chase Claypool, a receiver taken in the second round. The Steelers did not have a first-round pick this year, having sent that to the Dolphins last year to acquire safety Minkah Fitzpatrick.
NFL teams could begin having rookies report for training camp today, though the Steelers, who have just 16 rookies on their roster, have no such plans. They will likely have their rookies report closer to the July 28 reporting date for veterans.
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