NFL Star Micah Parsons Expects ‘Ferocious’ Steelers Rookie To Make Roster

Micah Parsons has high expectations for a Pittsburgh Steelers rookie.

Long before terrorizing NFL quarterbacks, Parsons played alongside Donte Kent at Harrisburg High School in Pennsylvania. The Dallas Cowboys superstar watched the Pittsburgh Steelers select his former teammate with the No. 229 pick in this year’s draft.

Parsons spoke highly of Kent after the duo worked out together at Harrisburg on Tuesday, courtesy of PennLive’s Nick Farabaugh.

“Everyone always knew Lil’ Kent,” Parsons said. “He was always ferocious, bro… He’s going to be really ready. I am excited to see where he is at and I kind of gave him some tips. Especially as a seventh-rounder. He’s got a lot to prove, but I think his hunger, his drive, is going to show why he’s going to make that roster.”

By the start of the 2025 season, Parsons could supplant the newly extended T.J. Watt as the NFL’s highest-paid defender. As the All-Pro edge rusher seeks a lucrative new deal, Kent will fight for a spot on Pittsburgh’s 53-man roster.

Kent recorded 234 tackles, two interceptions and two forced fumbles in five collegiate seasons at Central Michigan. The 5-foot-11 cornerback returned a punt for a touchdown during his final year and brandished blazing speed by running the 40-yard dash in 4.38 seconds.

Steelers general manager Omar Khan also gushed about Kent in an episode of “The Standard” released by the team last month.

“We spent significant time studying his film, looking at his production — not only on the defensive side, but also on special teams,” Khan said. “And the more we watched him, the more excited we got about him. Solid character. Again, another guy who’s got a really good opportunity, and we expect him to contribute sooner than later.”

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