Alabama OL Chris Owens lands with Steelers as UDFA
Chris Owens was not selected in the 2022 NFL Draft this weekend. He will, however, more than likely open up training camp on an NFL roster. Soon after the draft ended, news broke that the former Alabama offensive lineman would be signing an undrafted free agent contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Tom Pelissero, a reporter for the NFL Network, announced the signing via Twitter.
Owens was the last remaining member of Alabama’s 2016 recruiting class. For those who have forgotten some of the NFL talents that class produced, here’s a quick recap of the players who were drafted:
- DL Quinnen Williams: First round (Jets)
- OL Jonah Williams: First round (Bengals)
- RB Josh Jacobs: First round (Raiders)
- CB Trevon Diggs: Second round (Cowboys)
- QB Jalen Hurts: Second round (Eagles)
- DL Raekwon Davis: Second round (Dolphins)
- TE Irv Smith Jr: Second round (Vikings)
- LB Terrell Lewis: Third round (Rams)
- LB Mack Wilson: Fifth round (Browns)
- OL Deonte Brown: Sixth round (Panthers)
Joining Owens as undrafted free agents from that group include Shyheim Carter, Jared Mayden and Miller Forristall.
Owens was able to return to Alabama for a rare sixth year of eligibility due to the COVID rule from the 2020 season. After losing starting center Landon Dickerson to the NFL, Owens was expected to take over that role. It made sense considering he had played there at various points throughout his career.
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Prior to the season opener against Miami last September, Owens was kicked out to right tackle and started 11 games there. He did also get two starts at center against LSU and New Mexico State, but he struggled for the majority of the season. Still, there’s talent there, and Pittsburgh recognizes it.
Owens is the fifth Alabama player on the Steelers roster.
The others include running back Najee Harris, safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, offensive lineman J.C. Hassenauer and the recently signed cornerback Levi Wallace. Hopefully, Owens is able to show off his positional versatility and at least stick around on the practice squad.
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