Steelers vs Texans: 3 rookies we can't wait to see play on Friday

After an incredibly active offseason, the Pittsburgh Steelers kick off the NFL preseason on Friday night against the Houston Texans. For the second straight offseason, the Steelers head into the preseason with a very strong rookie class. The 2024 NFL draft yielded multiple rookies who could end up in the starting lineup this season.

Here are the three rookies we are most looking forward to seeing play vs the Texans.

LB Payton Wilson

It’s only going to take one tackle for Steelers fans to love Payton Wilson. His athleticism, work ethic and skill set are exciting and he should get a great look against the Texans starters.

DB Ryan Watts

Ryan Watts has had a very quiet camp. Watts is listed as the No. 3 strong safety so expect to see plenty of him in the second half. Watts has the potential to be a rotational guy at slot cornerback too so look for some of that as well.

C Zach Frazier

Nate Herbig is listed as the starting center and should get the start on Friday but Zach Frazier is the future of the position. Frazier is a powerful young man with a violent nature and we hope he gets into the game early.

There are several more rookies who should see reps and an honorable mention for us goes to running back Daijun Edwards and quarterback John Rhys Plumlee as two more rookies who will get in the game in the second half and bring some excitement.