The Steelers have most of their roster spots locked up after the win vs. the Chiefs, but here are three players who could make a serious push for a job.
Even before the preseason began, there were many players we knew were going to be dressing for game day on the Steelers. It’s not hard to accurately predict most players that make the roster.
I recently posted my updated 53-man roster for the Steelers following their preseason win against the Chiefs. While I have a pretty good idea of which players will land on the team, here are three with legitimate shots at making the roster if they impress in the final two preseason games:
Tuzar Skipper, OLB
Skipper was a long shot to make the team at the beginning of training camp. Ola Adeniyi continued to turn heads, and the Steelers kept just three edge defenders on their roster for most of the 2018 season.
Tuzar Skipper has a massive uphill battle. He is a 24-year old undrafted rookie on a team that has basically secured their top four outside linebackers. However, the Steelers are taking notice of Skipper. He has been extremely impressive over his first two games. Perhaps they could make room for him in 2019.
Kameron Kelly, FS
Who would have thought that the former AAF defensive back would have a shot to crack the Steelers roster? Kelly has turned heads during training camp, and has continued to be solid throughout the first two preseason games – even finding some reps with the starters.
Kameron Kelly is still not a lock to make the team, but he has been running as the number two free safety for some time now. He was once a player who didn’t stand much of a chance, but now it is looking like he will be on the team in September.
Johnny Holton, WR
Some fans would love to see Diontae Spencer rise above and make the final roster as a former CFL standout. However, I believe Holton stands a much greater chance.
Johnny Holton could play the ‘Heyward-Bey’ role for the Steelers – a big-bodied, deep speed receiver with special teams value as a gunner. Holton has also been returning kicks for the Steelers (which would be another skill to add to his resume).
It’s unlikely Pittsburgh keeps seven wide receivers, so Holton making the team would likely mean that Ryan Switzer or Eli Rogers is the odd man out.
Though these three players certainly are not guaranteed to have places on the Steelers roster this fall, all three still have a legitimate chance to make it. Their performances over the next two preseason games could help make or break their NFL careers.