Steelers Rookie Finds Out Success Brings ‘Fake Friends’ After Massive Contract
Being drafted into the NFL comes with pressure on the field — but for one Steelers rookie, it also brought an avalanche of distractions off it. Fresh off signing his fully guaranteed four-year, $15.1 million rookie contract, the young offensive lineman suddenly found himself dealing with old flames, “fake friends,” and new attention that had little to do with football.
The rookie revealed that shortly after putting pen to paper, people from his past began resurfacing. Some who had once turned their back during hard times suddenly reached out with congratulations, while others even tried to rekindle old relationships.
“After I signed, my ex-girlfriend wanted to get back together. People who once refused to help my family started messaging me like nothing happened. Success changes everything, and I’ve realized who’s really in my corner,” the rookie told local media.
Financially, the deal included a $7.82 million signing bonus and a projected $2.8 million cap hit for the 2025 season. The organization made the investment after moving on from veteran linemen and believed the rookie’s versatility to play both tackle and guard made him a cornerstone for the future.
But the rookie’s first year didn’t go as planned. A preseason knee injury sidelined him after just one appearance, forcing him to the injured reserve list for the remainder of the season. Despite the setback, he impressed in limited snaps, recording 29 flawless pass-blocking reps without allowing a sack.
That rookie is Troy Fautanu, Pittsburgh’s first-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Coaches believe he has the tools to become a long-term anchor on the offensive line, protecting new quarterback Aaron Rodgers as the Steelers aim to return to AFC contention in 2025.
“It’s an honor to wear the Steelers uniform, but the experience has taught me who truly stood by me when times were tough, and who only showed up when I found success. My focus is on getting healthy, coming back stronger, and proving every dollar the organization invested was worth it,” Troy emphasized.
Though his rookie campaign ended early, the expectation is clear: once healthy, Fautanu will be counted on to solidify Pittsburgh’s offensive front for years to come.
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