Don't rule out rookie linebacker Jarvis Jones starting for Steelers
The most recent rookies to nail down starting jobs with the Steelers defense no longer are with the defense. Casey Hampton is gone after a dozen years as their starting nose tackle and inside linebacker Kendrell Bell's career steadily went downhill after he was named NFL defensive rookie of the year.
They took over as rookies in 2001. No rookie has won a starting defensive job since, not Troy Polamalu, not Lawrence Timmons or LaMarr Woodley, and neither of their first-round picks at defensive end, Ziggy Hood nor Cameron Heyward.
Jarvis Jones could end that drought.
Steelers Report: Jarvis Jones a starter?
The PG's Ed Bouchette talks about Jarvis Jones with linebackers coach Keith Butler, who says the rookie has looked good enough in mini-camp to compete for a starting role. (Video by Andrew Rush; 6/12/2013)
"He's showing us things, and, if he keeps showing those things he's going to be a big part of that, hopefully," said Keith Butler, who coaches the Steelers linebackers.
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I definitely wouldn't mind seeing Jarvis starting at ROLB this season. It sounds like he is getting a good grasp on how the defense works and what new things he has to learn. I like his chances, but I still see Worilds starting in week one.