Former undrafted free agent Gunner Olszewski has elected to join the Pittsburgh Steelers on a two-year $4.2 million deal. How does this this move impact the Patriots? Krauses emergence had been instrumental to Olszewskis discovery. Patriots undrafted free agents tracker: Signings, rumors, analysis. [17], In Week 12, against the Arizona Cardinals, Olszewski returned a punt 82 yards to the end zone, but it was called back because of an illegal block by linebacker Anfernee Jennings; after the penalty, it was recorded as a 58-yard return. Having Belichick, Josh McDaniels, Steve Belichick and Jerod Mayo mic'd up took viewers right on to the field. Having two 51s at the heart of the defense -- with third-year linebacker Ja'Whaun Bentley (51) taking the reins as the top signal-caller -- potentially would have created more confusion for a young linebackers group trying to find its way. 2023 Advance Local Media LLC. Because we respect your right to privacy, you can choose not to allow some types of cookies. Coaches get it wrong," Appel said. It is highly recommended that you use the latest versions of a supported browser in order to receive an optimal viewing experience. In the Pats preseason finale, he flashed in all three phases with a 29-yard reception, 35-yard kick return and several defensive series at cornerback. In order to find a home in the NFL, however, he needed to expand his repertoire: Olszewski was moved from defensive back to wide receiver after signing a rookie free agent contract with the Patriots in 2019, and since then has played in a combined 38 regular season and playoff games. The staff worked overtime imploring hundreds of colleges to offer their undersized safety, a baton theyd taken from Wilcoxs predecessor, Trey Herrmann. 2. Harris' fresh legs and soft hands in the passing game (e.g., a one-handed catch Tuesday) have him in good position to be a primary option alongside Rex Burkhead. 2. "Bro you cut up like a Christmas ham" Olszewski wrote. Two years before his baseball career ended with a broken hand and whispers of NFL interest in spring 2018, Olszewki hit .327 as a freshman catcher at Bemidji State. In true Olszewski form, he flew to Minnesota sporting torn jeans, cowboy boots and a worn white tank top. The following season, that guy forced six fumbles, returned three punts for touchdowns and set the school record for career tackles with 270. "How old are you?". It was strange. Twenty hours after he made the play of the day at Pittsburgh Steelers practice, Gunner Olszewski took the moment in stride. Olszewski was not selected in the 2019 NFL Draft. "Everybody growing up knows who Nolan Ryan is and you want to be like Nolan Ryan. predict Olszewskis eventual All-America honor, triggered a mini meltdown from head coach P.J. The punt returner role is a little more complicated as it serves a greater purpose. So now that these three options are on the table, its time to look at what might be the best move for the Steelers before opening up the discussion, Ill give my vote: I just dont see Olszewski bringing value if hes not going to be the kick returner. Now is the time for Newton to make his decisive move for the starting job. "He's come in every day with an excitement to work.". And as the draft process closed, outside interest began to fade all together. With Phillip Dorsett and Maurice Harris sidelined, Tom Brady threw to Olszewski several times during joint practices in Tennessee, where he made a fan out of Titans cornerback Malcolm Butler. Gunner Olszewski 3 options for the Steelers with Myles Jack headed into 2023, 3 options for the Steelers with Mitch Trubisky headed into 2023, 3 options for the Steelers with Ahkello Witherspoon headed into 2023, Steelers Free Agent Tracker: Keeping tabs on players staying, and leaving, Updating Steelers depth charts after Day 3 of the NFL Draft. In turn, the team might allow him to test free agency in March. The draft is in the books. Harry played 37 games in three seasons at Arizona State and looked like a man among boys at times in college, but his first two training camps in the NFL have been defined more by his absence than presence. Camp ups and downs: Through the first five days of practices, here are players whose standing on the roster has changed based on my initial perception: Gunner Olszewski: The second-year receiver/returner seems faster, with notable development as a route runner. Nothing is ever going to be handed to you. Then, with less than 15 minutes until the NFLs deadline, they called back. "And he told me, Lets get it.. When someone made a mistake, he let them know about it," Herrmann said. Gunner Olszewksi Steals The Show In Julian Edelman's Curl right onto I-69, and snake south for 18 miles toward a bustling downtown. Bolte had his suspicions why. Sometimes scouting is a happy accident. Olszewski agreed to train with Appel after he had prepared Bo Olszewski, Gunners younger brother, for high school football. However, blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience of the site and the services we are able to offer. Panthers' Young all 'business now', 8. It would be all football all the time. WebPittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Gunner Olszewski makes a diving catch after the ball ricochets off a defender's helmet. pic.twitter.com/64uYU9vTkU. Only costing $2 million, the Steelers will only save about half that due to roster displacement. Led the league in punts return yardage (346). Eligibility restrictions apply. Sign for a rental car and ease into the drivers seat. To learn more or opt-out, read our Cookie Policy. Through 9 games, Olszewski ranked second in punt return yards, with 248 yards on 18 returns. In his second game in SoFi Stadium against the Chargers, Olszewski had four returns for 80 yards, with three returns of 20+ yards, a feat last accomplished by a Patriot in 2000 when Troy Brown did it. Such a motivated approach, coupled with the well-advertised energy he brings to the field, have created a spark inside team headquarters and positioned him as a leader. New England answered those questions by making Berrios one of its first cuts Saturday. On Sunday night, from the Gordon Street Tavern to Bemidji State and across the country, Olszewskis story will be broadcast during New Englands primetime season opener against the Steelers. Get started >>, "He has the juice every day," Patriots' third-year cornerback J.C. Jackson said. With the #Patriots allowing Gunner Olszewski to hit the free agency, several teams could be great fits. A longtime Bears scout called Bolte to say Olszewski had done well. Please also read our Privacy Notice and Terms of Use, which became effective December 20, 2019. Bolte believed Minnesota was barring all Division II prospects to avoid a repeat embarrassment. With a caption of "*punches clock*," Julian Edelman shared some pictures on Instagram. New league weeks start every Thursday with TNF kickoff. Ranking Gunner Olszewski's current TVS in terms of similar players at his position. What is his experience? Olszewskis interview went so well management agreed to work around his training schedule. No other team suggested trying another position. 21+ (18+ NH/WY). He has a career 23.3-yard kickoff return average and a 12.6-yard punt return average. Led the league in punts returned for touchdown (1). Thats what he taught me, said Tomayo who trained under Olszewski this spring. ", "Yes, but when you entered and left they got my license plate.. Has played in 53 games (four starts) over his four-year NFL career (Patriots 2019-21; Steelers 2022), Has averaged 22.6 yards per kickoff return (39 returns for 880 yards) and 12.0 yards per punt return (74 returns for 889 yards) over his career, His 12.0 yards/punt return would rank sixth in NFL history, but the Leagueuses 75 punt returns to qualify for the NFL record (which is 12.8 yards/punt return by George McAfee, Chicago, 1940-41, 45-50), Led the NFL with a 17.3-yard punt return average (20 returns for 346 yards and one TD) in 2020, which was the highest return average in New England history and the second-highest in the NFL since 1970, Earned several accolades in 2020, including Associated Press First Team All-Pro, Pro Football Weekly All-NFL Team, PFWA All-AFC Team and Sporting News All-Pro, Named AFC Special Teams Player of the Week for his performance in Week 13 of 2020 at L.A. Chargers when he scored on a 70-yard punt return and had a 61-yard return, First player in New England history with two punt returns of at least 60 yards in a single game, Also registered a 38-yard TD reception at L.A. Chargers, which made him the fourth player in Patriots history with a punt return TD and TD catch in the same game, Has caught 14 passes for 180 yards and one TD and rushed 14 times for 71 yards, Made NFL debut in Week 1 of 2019 (vs. Pittsburgh), Made NFL starting debut in Week 8 of 2020 (at Buffalo), Played in 16 regular-season games (two starts), Returned three kickoffs for 46 yards (15.3 average) and eight punts for 55 yards (6.9 average), Caught five passes for 53 yards and rushed eight times for 39 yards, Broke off an 18-yard run in Week 2 vs. New England, the longest of his career, Reached a career-high in receiving yards (39) in Week 11 vs. Cincinnati, including a season-high 31-yard reception, Primarily used as a punt returner and on kickoffs with occasional snaps at wide receiver, Caught two passes for 31 yards; rushed for nine yards on one carry, Returned 18 kickoffs for 416 yards (23.1 yards/return), Returned 26 punts for 309 yards (11.9 yards/return), His 11.9 yards/punt return finished tied for second in the NFL, Returned two punts for 30 yards vs. N.J. Theyd paid less attention to Olzewski and BSUs prospects than in years past. pic.twitter.com/lO1kiIpva8. For as valuable as his contributions on special teams were, Gunner Olszewski was a net-negative offensively throughout his time in New England. They may be used by those companies to build a profile of your interests and show you relevant adverts on other sites. He asked Appel to redesign every aspect of his workouts so he could become a wide receiver. [16] He was activated on October 5, 2020, before the team's Week 4 game against Kansas City; because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the minimum stay on IR for the 2020 season was reduced to three games. After selecting 12 players in the NFL Draft, the Patriots have added three more through the rookie free agency process. Amble to the back and grab a chair at the bar. New league weeks start every Thursday with TNF kickoff. The 25-year old return man leaves Yet the Gophers refused him. [12], He made his NFL debut in the Patriots' 333 Week 1 win against the Pittsburgh Steelers, returning two punts for 35 yards (averaging 17.5 yards per return). After selecting 12 players in the NFL Draft, the Patriots have added three more through the rookie free agency process. At that moment, Appel turned to his wife and proclaimed: Gunners gonna make the team.". The competition now rises, and the expectation among many who have watched him closely over the last few weeks is that Newton will, too. In case you missed it, check out the same question for other players below: Gambling Problem? Said Bolte: Its really nothing short of a fairytale.. He wanted to work more, pocket a little extra cash. Neither could Bellew not even when the emergency room beckoned during his freshman season. Newton, of course, went No. How do you sell an undersized defensive back with an outsized heart to the next level? Within a week, Appel discovered what all of Olszewskis previous teachers had learned over the years: You only have to tell him once. Gunner Olszewski Hed train in the morning, shower, eat and work with younger clients before heading home for second and third helpings of chicken and moms lasagna to add weight and then fall fast asleep. Gunner Olszewski is looking for revenge against his former team on Sunday. Gunner Olszewski He could switch seamlessly between cornerback and safety, they said. As for where Newton stands with learning the system, quarterbacks coach Jedd Fisch said the "leaps he's been taking each day have been really impressive" considering the "huge foundational gap" working against Newton in a new offense. A lack of sleep wore on his workouts. A look at whos stock is climbing and whos is dipping after the Steelers selections on Days 2 & 3. ", Learn more about rookie tight end/fullback Connor Heyward, Learn more about fifth-year offensive lineman Mason Cole, Learn more about rookie quarterback Chris Oladokun, Learn more about rookie linebacker Mark Robinson, Learn more about sixth-year defensive tackle Montravius Adams, Learn more about fourth-year receiver Miles Boykin, Learn more about rookie defensive lineman DeMarvin Leal, Learn more about rookie receiver Calvin Austin III, Learn more about fifth-year linebacker Genard Avery, Learn more about sixth-year quarterback Mitch Trubisky, Learn more about rookie receiver George Pickens, 2023 Pittsburgh Steelers. Olszewski felt himself slipping and needed to re-stabilize with a new routine. All the kids know who Gunner is.". Olszewski, a 23-year-old Texas native, was an undrafted free agent for the Patriots last year. 2. Shop around for a Gunner Olszewski jersey: Fanatics.com, Dick's Sporting Goods, Champs Sports, Lids Drawing on those spring days, he finds inspiration. Language links are at the top of the page across from the title. Like Perles, most traveled for Olszewski. This website is not directly or indirectly affiliated, associated, or connected in any way to Major League Baseball, the National Basketball Association, the National Football League or the National Hockey League. For the most part, there are three options when it comes to Olszewski and the 2023 season with the Pittsburgh Steelers: When a player gets brought in to do a certain job and they get demoted from doing that job, is there really reason to keep them? Johnny Tamayo falls back on his training to push forward. No mercy. He has the ability to give hope and inspiration to kids that otherwise might not have it. Levis opens up about draft day Despite his status as an All-Pro just one year ago, the Patriots tagging Olszewski is no guarantee. This information might be about you, your preferences or your device and is mostly used to make the site work as you expect it to. video Olszewski's first catch of game goes for 31-yard It felt like every day there was a different scout there watching somebody, which is not typical at all for us, Bolte said. And now those Texans know what hes become: a living testament to grit and an undying dream. [10] The three-year deal had a $2,500 signing bonus. Gunner Olszewski signed a 2 year, $4,200,000 contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers, including a $1,235,000 signing bonus, $1,235,000 guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $2,100,000. Those are as follows: Division II All-American cornerback, 2018 Defensive Player of the Year in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference, several all-conference honors on defense and special teams, countless Player of the Week awards and becoming the all-time leader in tackles for a corner. "I feel like for the most part, guys have adjusted and created new routines and they don't even think about it now.". Call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelpline.ma.org (MA), Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY). More than three years later, the story remains a favorite among all of Olszewskis Bemidji State coaches. [19] He finished the season with a league-high 346 punt return yards on 20 returns. Because scouts get it wrong. The 25-year old return man leaves New England after three seasons, his second of which ended in an All-Pro nomination. Did Pats make Mac Jones happy? Olszewski earned his second All-District honor ahead of players ticketed for FBS programs on full scholarships. Gunner Olszewski Sneak peek at camp: In a year when fans aren't allowed at training camp (it's commonplace for the Patriots to pack 15,000-20,000 around their practice fields on the opening week), kudos to owner Robert Kraft, Belichick and the organization for providing a sneak peek as part of a TV special Saturday night. [6] He also returned punts and held for field goals and extra points. Shop around for a Gunner Olszewski jersey: Fanatics.com, Dick's Sporting Goods, Champs Sports, Lids. 21+ (18+ NH/WY). Gunner Olszewski They drink cold beer and watch football on wide screens overhead. 1. Time to check on everyones favorite NFL Draft analysts thoughts on the AFC North teams draft grades. He had his best season in 2020 when he finished the season with a 17.3-yard punt return average, which ranked first in the NFL and was the highest return average in Patriots history and the second-highest in the NFL since 1970, despite missing the first three games of the season on the Reserve/Injured List. "Cam has a great energy about him and is one of those personalities that is infectious," Fisch said. Appel agreed to pack Olszewskis training schedule into the six weeks left before his college all-star game appearance in late January. While Newton's shorts are certainly attention-grabbing, it is the look of Olszewski that really stands out. Pictured here from left to right: Jakobi Meyers, Edelman, Cam Newton, Damiere Byrd, N'Keal Harry, Gunner Olszewski (via @Edelman11 on IG). Gunner Olszewski signed a 2 year, $4,200,000 contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers, including a $1,235,000 signing bonus, $1,235,000 guaranteed, and an average Free agent addition Ty Montgomery is the most likely option to take over the kick returner role, having served in that capacity before for the Green Bay Packers and Baltimore Ravens. Crossens exit was a disguised entryway for Olszewski. A post shared by Julian Edelman (@edelman11), #Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman "punches clock" and is ready to go. People are drawn to him.. What losing Gunner Olszewski in free agency means for the He was cut at the end of the summer, only to be brought back shortly thereafter, following a trade that opened up a roster spot. Odds and lines subject to change. Lombardi on Lombardi: Patriots first-year wide receivers coach Mick Lombardi, who is the son of longtime NFL front-office man Michael Lombardi, quoted legendary coach Vince Lombardi (no relation) when recently asked about being promoted to the new role. His lateral quickness had stirred their imaginations. See terms at draftkings.com/sportsbook. Matt Groh explains Patriots decision to not add at tight end in the NFL Draft. Boltes willingness to share Olzewski with the schools baseball program helped secure his commitment. Not every loss will get you a pick, but since Olszewski is a former All-Pro player, its not crazy to think that the NFL could award New England an extra pick in the 2023 draft for their loss. Gunner Olszewski - Pro-Football-Reference.com Taylors status as a roster-bubble player remains. It hangs in front of a 139-year-old watering hole, the Gordon Street Tavern. Not to mention the areas love of the outdoors. Well if you go to jail, coach, Ill come visit you.. Led the league in yards per punt return (17.3). Latest on Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Gunner Olszewski including news, stats, videos, highlights and more on ESPN THE BEST 10 Tattoo in McLean, VA - Last Updated March 2023 In Appels words, he buried the 22-year-old under a series of rigorous physical tests and drills. 2020 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. See terms at draftkings.com/sportsbook. Olszewski signed a two-year contract with the Steelers as an unrestricted free agent this offseason. Belichick praises Newton, Pats' QB room (1:47), Early riser Cam Newton giving spark to Patriots behind the scenes. A visual look at how Gunner Olszewski ranks across the league, conference, division, and team. The coach thought Chicago might move on him. Months after Olszewski bid Bemidji goodbye to train for the NFL full time, the school completed wholesale renovations inside its football offices. The couples eyes climbed the screen searching for No. [13] He recorded his first receptions in Week 6 against the New York Giants; targeted three times, he had two receptions, for five and 29 yards. Also, by disabling these cookies you will also disable banner ads served by Google Adsense on this website.. For more information about these items, view our complete privacy policy.Read More, To see the rest of the Gunner Olszewski's contract breakdowns, & gain access to all of Spotrac's Premium tools, sign up today. Did you know? Wilcoxs face scrunched up. Olszewski is one of the most productive punt returners in football, which might make him an attractive target to some teams in need of help in this area. There is Gunner Olszewski. Essentially he was a returner who took up a roster spot. 10. That and an unusual official visit. DALE CITY BODY ART - 63 Photos & 26 Reviews - Yelp [11], On August 31, the day that teams were required to trim their preseason 90-man rosters to 53-man rosters, the Patriots told Olszewski that morning that he would be waived; instead, the Patriots kept him after trading cornerback Keion Crossen less than an hour before the deadline. Get started >>, It's not too late to play with friends and family. After all, his productivity in the return game in combination with his experience as a backup receiver made him quite valuable. The Patriots and Titans were already underway in Nashville. "BSU's Young Gun: True freshman cornerback Gunner Olszewski finding his place at Bemidji State", "His Best Shot: Once Overlooked, Gunner Olszewski Now Aims High", "That's Just Gunner: Former Alvin coach thrilled to see Olszewski make Super Bowl champs' roster", "Gunner Olszewski, the New England Patriots' greatest underdog in years, is taking his shot", "Gunner Olszewski, Bemidji State, FS, 2019 NFL Draft Scout, NCAA College Football", "An unlikely break changed Olszewski's future", "A former college DB, Gunner Olszewski aims for greatness as a pro WR", "Gunner Olszewski is making a name for himself in New England", "Report: Gunner Olszewski receives rookie minimum deal from Patriots", "Report: Patriots rookie WR Gunner Olszewski makes roster after being told he would be released", "Patriots' Gunner Olszewski Flashes Punt-Return Potential In NFL Debut Vs. Steelers", "Jakobi Meyers, Gunner Olszewski step up for Patriots with injured receiving corps", "Patriots activate OL Isaiah Wynn; Place WR Gunner Olszewski on IR", "Patriots Activate Damien Harris, Gunner Olszewski; Place Sony Michel On IR", "Patriots Gunner Olszewski turns into unlikely hero in Los Angeles", "Packers QB Aaron Rodgers, Bills QB Josh Allen lead Players of the Week", "Patriots' Gunner Olszewski Had One Of Best Seasons Ever By Punt Returner", "How Jake Bailey, Gunner Olszewski made Patriots history with All-Pro honors", "2020 All-Pro Team Announced | Football Outsiders", "Matthew Judon is exactly what Patriots needed: 15 thoughts on win over Chargers", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Gunner_Olszewski&oldid=1151293467, Sportspeople from the Houston metropolitan area, Short description is different from Wikidata, Pittsburgh Steelers currentteam parameter articles, Infobox NFL biography articles missing alt text, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 3.0, This page was last edited on 23 April 2023, at 03:34. Which teams might be in the running? Olszewski secured two of three targets for 39 yards during the Steelers ' 37-30 loss to the Bengals on Sunday. In return, he served food, lent a hand in the kitchen and behind the bar and wherever else his manager required him. You want to represent well, so I think that's where my toughness comes from. Gambling Problem? Hes got a great personality, very charismatic. That remains to be seen, but it is no guarantee. If New England decided to give him the original round tender, he would be factored into the formula. Up against an unexpectedly large crowd with food and drink disappearing, Bellew turned to his catcher for assistance. He damned destiny. Matt Groh explains Patriots decision to not add at tight end in the NFL Draft. His star defensive backs finally had an NFL audience. Odds and lines subject to change. Former undrafted free agent Gunner Olszewski has elected to join the Pittsburgh Steelers on a two-year $4.2 million deal. Because of his skills in the return game. Olszewski played collegiately at Bemidji State, a Division II school in Minnesota. Learn more about Steelers fourth-year receiver Gunner Olszewski in this edition of Five Fast Facts. Though that thought is nice, there is one major factor working against this idea. These cookies may be set through our site by our advertising partners. Kaleb Gunner Olszewski[1] (/oski/)[2] (born November 26, 1996) is an American football wide receiver and return specialist for the Pittsburgh Steelers of the National Football League (NFL). Back on the road the compass points west, where a dark-haired freshman at New Mexico State sweats out several pounds during a padded football practice under an unforgiving southwestern sun. 3 options for the Steelers with Gunner Olszewski headed into 2023, Draft Grades: Mel Kiper grades Steelers, and rest of the AFC North. WebSteelers' Gunner Olszewski: Racks up 39 yards. Olszewski has run back a total of 66 punts for an average of 12.6 yards per return and one touchdown so far in his career; he also fielded and returned an additional Both coaches understood recruiters would dismiss Olszewski on measurements alone. Olszewski's father, Eric, played minor league baseball as a pitcher for the Atlanta Braves organization. Weve been spreading the word about how excited we are for Gunner, says his former manager Natalie Peters. 3. The others are Bernie Kosar (1985 supplemental draft), Vinny Testaverde (1987) and Drew Bledsoe (1993). No one expected him to be here. Cookie Settings/Do Not Sell My Personal Information. His first went for 70 yards and was the first touchdown of his career; he followed it up with returns of 14 and 61 yards. Then split left onto Highway 288, and allow a half hour to pass; the city lights dimming in the rearview and flat, dry, dusty earth sprawling all around. The Patriots have more than $30 million in salary-cap space, and it might be wise to consider using some of that cushion to extend Jackson, who will be a restricted free agent after the 2020 season. 32 lingering post-draft questions: Will Lions have regrets? In the eight years before his NFL breakthrough, Olszewski routinely stiff-armed expectations. Olszewski was adamant about it, and rightfully so. The Patriots had the option to tender Olszewski and chose not to, giving up the ability to match any offer he may receive. Patriots Gunner Olszewski motivated to show out against Patriots in Week 2 "Anytime you play the ex, you want to show out." Then Wolden stepped forward and had his picture taken next to the new mural depicting the greatest player in Bemidji State football history. Other options to return kicks include J.J. Taylor and Rhamondre Stevenson, both of whom served in that role during training camp. Gunner Olszewski was born on November 26, 1996, in Alvin, Texas.