Chasing the Chiefs’ 53: Derek Sherrod and Steven Borden Jr.
By Ben Almquist
Steven Borden is probably more recognizeable as being the son of professional wreslter, Sting, than he is as an NFL prospect. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sportsr
Steven Borden J.Steven Borden Jr.
So far in his career, Steven Borden Jr. is probably better known as the son of wrestling icon Sting than he is as a football player. Now, I haven’t been much of a wrestling fan since I was much younger, but I think just about everybody knows Sting, which makes this a pretty big shadow to live under.
It’s kind of a cool story, and Borden is hardly the first son of a pro wrestler to take to the football field. However, it’s going to take more than face paint and a dropkick for Borden to make the Chiefs roster, and Borden knows that. When asked about growing up in the shadow of his father, Steven Jr told the media: “It’s never bothered me. It’s actually been one of those things that has pushed me my entire life … You see what your dad has done, you want to beat him out.”
What does he have going for him?
Borden is a hard worker with a lot of grit. He has clearly had a strong work ethic instilled in him from his father, who made it clear Steven would have to make it on his own. On tape, Borden shows an aptitude for blocking. That is a quality trait to have since running teams can always use a blocking tight end on the depth chart.
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What hurdles does he have?
Plain and simple, Borden didn’t have the most productive of careers at Kentucky. He has never been the pass-catching type of tight end, so there isn’t a lot to get excited about on that front. He also doesn’t possess any individual physical trait that allows him to stand out. Average speed, average athleticism and average strength.
What is his best chance?
Steven Borden needs to show up on special teams and as a blocker on offense. He stands virtually no shot at the roster without both of those things playing in his favor. Just showing one or the other probably isn’t going to be enough for the Chiefs to invest a roster spot in him.
“It’s never bothered me. It’s actually been one of those things that has pushed me my entire life. You see what your dad has done, you want to beat him out. ~ Steven Borden on growing up in the shadow of his father, “Sting”.
Prediction?
Ultimately, I think Borden is one of the final cuts the Chiefs will make. He is the kind of guy the team will keep in its rolodex in case of injuries, but there just isn’t enough to suggest that he is going to come out of Chiefs camp with a number on his back.
The Chiefs have an interesting group in camp this year. There are a number of guys who could make a huge splash out of nowhere. John Dorsey has invested in potential, now it just remains to be seen what turns up from that.
Recap:
53-Man Roster – Da’Rick Rogers
Practice Squad – DeVante Bausby
Cut List –