Russell Wilson is excited that the Pittsburgh Steelers added some more protection for him on Thursday night.
The Steelers drafted offensive tackle Troy Fautanu with the 20th overall pick and will have him play left or right tackle. If he starts at right tackle, it would allow Broderick Jones to move to left tackle, which is his natural position.
After the pick was announced, Wilson congratulated Fautanu on becoming a Steeler.
“Welcome @tFautanu to the Burgh!” he tweeted.
Wilson signed a one-year deal with the Steelers when free agency opened and will be the team’s starting quarterback to open the 2024 season. He’ll be backed up by Justin Fields after the Steelers traded for him last month.
Fautanu was part of Washington’s strong offensive line this past season and was one of the best tackles in the country. He also only allowed two sacks on 1,231 passing block snaps over his last two seasons, per Pro Football Focus.
Fautanu grew up a diehard Steelers fan and idolized former Steelers safety Troy Polamalu. He’ll now get to play for his favorite team starting in September.