The Steelers signed third-round draft pick Chukwuma Okorafor to a four-year contract. Okorafor was the team's second of two picks in the third round, taken with the 92nd overall pick.
Okorafor, an offensive tackle from Western Michigan, is the fifth of the team's seven players from the 2018 NFL Draft to sign.
"He is a guy that is going to fit what we are looking for," said offensive line coach Mike Munchak. "He can play right or left tackle. Great size, great strength. I am excited about the opportunity to work with him. I am excited to add someone of his caliber, someone who has a chance to grow, improve.
"The goal would be he can play both sides. He can help us right away competing at those spots."
Okorafor, who was born in Nigeria, didn't play football until high school, but quickly made the adjustment. He started three seasons at tackle at Western Michigan, one at right and the last two at left. He was a first-team All-American selection by FWAA and Phil Steele, and a second-team All-American by Sports Illustrated. He was also one of six semifinalists for the prestigious Outland Trophy, given to the nation's best offensive lineman.
And while he doesn't have a preference as to whether he plays left or right tackle, he said he does feel more comfortable on the left side just because of experience.
"I played it the past couple years, but it doesn't really matter to me," said Okorafor. "Being able to prove I could play right tackle and also play left tackle that kind of was a plus. It's time to just learn. It's me just putting my head down and getting to work."
