After each player was drafted by the Steelers, they took time out to talk about what it meant to be selected. And there is no doubt, many dreams came true as the NFL Draft unfolded.
Here is a sampling of what was said.
First-round pick T.J. Watt on joining his brothers, Texans' J.J. Watt and Chargers' Derek Watt, in the NFL:
"I think it was definitely a dream, but it was never one we thought would be reached. As we grew older and we saw J.J. do it, it became more of an expectation almost. Because you see how much hard work is put into it and you realize a kid from Pewaukee (Wisconsin) can make it. I see the work and I know what it takes, that's why I take this so seriously day after day. And I just take it one day at a time. It's great to be here, but I'm not satisfied at all to just be here. I'm chasing greatness, and that's what I'm here for."
Second-round pick JuJu Smith-Schuster on being emotional after being drafted:
"It's a blessing. You have your whole family behind you and your supporters. Your name finally gets called by a team that you didn't expect a call from. When I finally got the call, it was unbelievable. It really meant a lot, because I didn't get called earlier. When you have family behind you and they're waiting and waiting and you finally get the call, I was speechless."
Third-round pick Cameron Sutton getting the phone call from the Steelers:
"It's amazing. It's surreal. Just to have the opportunity to be with such a historic and prestigious organization it means a lot. To hear and know Mike Tomlin's voice and everyone else, all the other coaches, the GM, the President. The overall confidence level they have in me. I really appreciate it. I'm really going to make the most of it."
Third-round pick James Conner on his reaction when the Steelers called:
"It's a dream come true. I'm forever grateful for them for giving me the opportunity after everything I've been through. I know a lot of teams were scared, but they gave me the opportunity of a lifetime, and they are going to get a great person and a great football player, and I'll give it my all for them."
Fourth-round pick Joshua Dobbs on joining Tennessee college teammate Cameron Sutton as part of the draft class:
"That's my guy. We were able to become leaders at Tennessee, on and off the field. I am definitely excited to come join him. He was one of the first people that called me after I got drafted. We knew we are going to be back together, and we weren't going to be broken up. It's definitely very exciting to see a familiar face, a great teammate and a great friend and brother with me in Pittsburgh."
Fifth-round pick Brian Allen on the transition to corner and getting to work:
"(The toughest part was) tackling and learning to play backwards because I had never played defense before in my life. But over the years I feel like I have improved on it, and it has helped my game a lot. There is still a lot of work that needs to be done, but I am just happy for this opportunity and ready to get to work."
Sixth-round pick Colin Holba on working with special teams coordinator Danny Smith:
"I can't wait to get to work with him. The Steelers have some of the best special teams in the NFL, so I can't wait to learn and soak up all the information that he has to offer."
Seventh-round pick Keion Adams on the Steelers' tradition:
"To end up with an organization like the Steelers is a blessing. It's crazy how things play out. There is a rich culture, a rich tradition. As soon as I walked into the building you could tell it was a family-oriented culture. The energy and the passion you have for football makes it a wonderful situation to be in. I am beyond excited. It's hard to put it into words."
