Steelers Rookie Injured and Missing Time in Training Camp
Steelers training camp is in full swing. Some players have already been injured. Steelers rookie cornerback Donte Kent was recently added to that list. He was seen on the sideline at practice today wearing a walking boot. Kent didn’t practice on Saturday or Sunday. He was injured during “Friday Night Lights,” which is one of the most intense practices during training camp. The details of Kent’s injury haven’t been released to the public. However, it’s likely to be an ankle or foot injury due to the boot.
The Steelers selected Kent in the seventh round of this year’s NFL Draft. He played for the Central Michigan Chippewas for five seasons and was known for his speed and versatility. In addition to playing cornerback, he has experience as a punt returner. Kent was the main punt returner for Central Michigan during the 2024 season, returning 16 punts for 217 yards and one touchdown. Kent is also known for his toughness. He spoke about his toughness and aggressive playing style. He remarked, “I also grew up a wrestler as well. Yeah, that plays a lot into it.”
Kent played in 53 games during his collegiate football career, starting in 48 of them. He amassed 234 tackles, two interceptions, and two forced fumbles. In 2021, he was a Football Writers Association of America Freshman All-America team honoree. Kent was named First-team All-MAC in 2022. He was named Second-team All-MAC in 2023 and 2024. Kent broke his college’s record for pass breakups with 47 and 49 passes defended.
It’s unknown how long Kent will be off the field. As a seventh-round pick, Kent's chances of making the Steelers’ roster were never certain, and his injury worsens the odds. He’ll have to return to the field soon if he wants to make the final 53-man roster. Kent’s next opportunity to participate in practice is on Tuesday, as Monday is an off day for the Steelers. Before his injury, Kent’s performance at training camp was promising. Steelers general manager Omar Khan had already been confident that Kent would contribute to the team sooner rather than later. Fans should receive more information about Kent’s injury in the coming days.
