5 Steelers players hurt most by the lack of NFL preseason

Anthony Johnson

Anthony Johnson was a player I really liked after he was added as a futures player after the season. He was very productive in college, and his size and physicality made him an intriguing option both outside and inside the slot. His play was reminiscent of a JuJu Smith-Schuster lite, as he utilized his larger body to win against defenders.

While his tape looked solid and the fact the Steelers could potentially keep six receivers on the roster boded well for his roster chances, the lack of a preseason will likely make that road even tougher. With an established option like Ryan Switzer and an option like Deon Cain having spent half the season on the roster last year, Johnson has become more of a longshot to make the roster.

While I liked Johnson enough to have him on my initial 53-man roster, those odds have taken a significant hit due to the lack of a preseason. Luckily, the practice squad is wide open as of now, meaning Johnson has just as good of odds as the other options. Fans can remain hopeful, but more than likely Johnson will be off the roster by the time the Steelers begin the season.