Training camp is the perfect time for players to keep their NFL dreams alive by making an NFL roster. It is also a time when players might see their dreams fizzle out. There were key pieces on the Pittsburgh Steelers depth chart who appeared positioned to make the 53-man roster, and potentially play a significant role heading into the preseason process.
Time might've changed that tune, and could result in several key roster cuts.
It's a loaded group for Pittsburgh to decide from when final decisions must be made. Training camp has revealed an unflattering reality for a handful of players hoping to secure their jobs with the Steelers. After a rough outing at camp, fans could witness key pieces hitting the chopping block. No one is safe at this time of year, and it could result in some massive gambles.
Pittsburgh Steelers could let go key pieces when they cut the team to their 53-man roster
Robert Woods, WR
He seemed prepared to take on a depth role on offense for the Steelers heading into training camp, but Robert Woods's future is questionable. He hasn't done anything spectacular in practice, and he has slowed down due to his age. It could result in his release if he isn't careful. Pittsburgh is leaving the door cracked open for the veteran, but he has some ground to make up.
Woods sits in a crowded receiving group heading into the final couple of weeks of the preseason. Scotty Miller has outplayed him, and if the Steelers keep five receivers instead of six, it could be disastrous for Woods. He might be a solid run blocker, but Pittsburgh needs more from him as a pass catcher. After a poor camp, this playmaker is on the brink of unemployment.
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Cory Trice Jr., CB
Injuries have always been a red flag for Cory Trice Jr. throughout his football life. He struggled with them in college, which allowed the Steelers to snag him in the seventh round of the 2023 NFL Draft. He was fantastic value at that point, but those injury concerns have lived up to the warning signs. Trice Jr. has missed numerous games due to injuries, which could be putting his job at risk.
Brandin Echols was signed during free agency, and he produced quality play at training camp. He claimed the top backup role, which Trice Jr. had been expected to contest. Unfortunately for the young cornerback, he missed most of the practices and is running out of time to prove his worth to make the 53-man roster.
Unless he returns in a hurry to finish out the preseason, Pittsburgh might have to let him go.
Ryan McCollum, OC
It's an underlying issue right now, but the Steelers could use some help at the center position on the 53-man roster. Max Scharping has shown some quality signs throughout training camp and the preseason process, but you'd like a better choice. Ryan McCullum was positioned to be the top backup for Zach Frazier, but an early injury has derailed his opportunity.
McCollum has a shot at making the roster, but time is dwindling. Scharping has played both center and guard, which improves his chances of making the roster. McCollum is someone the Steelers are familiar with, but he hasn't done much outside of being a depth piece. Pittsburgh might have to move on if the NFL journeyman cannot locate playing time this preseason.