PITTSBURGH -- The Steelers said Thursday that they have few concerns about first-round draft pick Troy Polamalu's college concussions, but they did give him a special helmet.

The hard-hitting, 22-year-old safety (pictured, left), considered to be USC's best since Ronnie Lott, was introduced to the media Thursday on the South Side.

Polamalu and the team's 24 other rookies are in town for orientation, which includes five on-field practice sessions from Friday through Sunday at the UPMC Sports Performance Complex.

Polamalu said he's probably been reckless with his body, but the Steelers said a neurosurgeon found no lasting damage from three concussions he suffered in college.

Just in case, the team gave Polamalu a helmet designed to deflect hits and reduce the jarring effects of side-impacts collisions, especially on the jaw.

Although Polamalu is more of a hitter than a coverage specialist, the Steelers hope his four-three speed in the 40-yard dash will help patch up their secondary.

Pittsburgh fell from fifth to 20th in pass coverage last season, allowing 30 or more points eight times, including both playoff games.