The rookie season of cornerback Cory Trice Jr. was over before he started. Trice was well on his way to making the 53-man roster when he tore his ACL in training camp. But now a month removed from the injury, Trice is back with the team, attending meetings and plans to be with his teammates for the season while he continues to rehab and prepare for 2024.

“I feel like I was definitely in a good spot, but everything happens for a reason,” Trice said. “They want me around, rehabbing with the team, staying around the guys. I am still learning. I am still learning, so when I come back I can pick up right where I left off.”

Trice was the Steelers seventh-round pick in 2023 out of Purdue. It didn’t take long for everyone to realize he was much better than his draft spot and his size and athleticism were too good for him to not make the team. His injury might have halted his rookie season too soon but if he makes a full recovery, should compete for a spot again next season.

Story originally appeared on Steelers Wire