The arrivals of former Ohio State Buckeyes QB Will Howard and OLB Jack Sawyer to Pittsburgh haven’t been quiet.

On May 4th, they attended a Pittsburgh Pirates game together, and their appearance on the Jumbotron was the only thing fans could celebrate.

Just a few days later, they appeared on Ben Roethlisberger’s podcast, Footbahlin, to discuss various topics, including their college career and transition to the NFL.

The transition is upon them, as the rookie mini camp is here, and Sawyer has shifted his primary focus to competing at a position that’s been a staple for the franchise.

Speaking to reporters, Sawyer said there is a “standard to uphold” regarding former Steelers outside linebacker greats.

“There’s a standard to uphold,” Sawyer said. “Obviously I’ve got three really good players in my room, too. I’m just excited to come in, keep my head down, and work and do everything I can to help the team and learn from those guys.

The standard Sawyer speaks of features a lineage that includes Jack Ham, who played a pivotal role in the Steelers dynasty of the 1970’s, Greg Lloyd, a five-time pro bowler, and most recently James Harrison, a two-time Super Bowl champion and 2008 NFL Defensive MVP.

Of course, Sawyer will also have the Steelers’ all-time sack leader, T.J. Watt, to lean on.

Obviously, these are lofty goals for the fourth-round pick, but the greatness he recognized before him will most certainly push him to try and reach those heights.

It’s a longshot – but he’s an easy guy to root for.. unless you are a Michigan fan, of course.