An early Steelers 53-man roster prediction before training camp
By Andrew Falce
EDGE (4): T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, Quincy Roche, Cassius Marsh
One of the weakest positions on the depth chart, edge rusher seems like a great spot for the team to sign a veteran. The starters are set and shouldn’t be much in question, but the players behind them are more question marks than anything else. T.J. Watt is set to continue adding to his already great legacy while Alex Highsmith should build off a promising rookie season.
The issue comes behind them, as the seemingly top depth option right now is either sixth-round pick Quincy Roche or veteran Cassius Marsh. Marsh joined the team last season and was a fine special teams player, but he certainly isn’t someone you want to see considerable snaps. As for Roche, he was easily the best value pick in the draft for the Steelers, but banking on a sixth-round rookie to be your top backup edge rusher is a risk.
Assuming the Steelers don’t add a capable veteran option, this depth chart is likely set. While the team has a couple of unknown options and undrafted players, it would be a shock to see them beat out Marsh for the last spot at edge rusher. This group appears set, but don’t be surprised to see a veteran’s name pop up before training camp or after roster cuts.