Early predictions for the Steelers 2021 53-man roster
By Shayne Kubas
The Cornerbacks: Joe Haden, Cameron Sutton, James Pierre, Arthur Maulet, Justin Layne, Shakur Brown
The Steelers are going to need contributions from several inexperienced players if they want their secondary to be a strength, and luckily there are a few standing out so far in the offseason. James Pierre and Shakur Brown did well in minicamp, which hopefully will continue into training camp.
Veteran Arthur Maulet looks to help with slot duties with Cam Sutton playing outside more, and Joe Haden should remain the #1 corner. Justin Layne needs a strong camp if he wants to have a role this season, but I don’t see him being cut if he hasn’t been already after his off-the-field incident.
The Safeties: Minkah Fitzpatrick, Terrell Edmunds, Tre Norwood, Antoine Brooks Jr., Miles Killebrew
Minkah Fitzpatrick is one of the best deep safeties in the NFL, and Terrell Edmunds improved in coverage last year while remaining a physical presence in the secondary. The depth behind them is a big question mark, however.
Rookie Tre Norwood has looked strong as a versatile defensive back in minicamp, and Antoine Brooks Jr. is more of a slot defender than a true safety. Miles Killebrew is the most experienced depth player but is more of a special teamer than anything else. If Fitzpatrick or Edmunds were to miss time, we could see a big drop-off in quality of play.
The Specialists: Chris Boswell, Presley Harvin III, Kameron Canaday
Chris Boswell and Kameron Canaday are the unquestioned kicker and long snapper, but the punting job is up for grabs between veteran Jordan Berry and rookie Presley Harvin III. Considering the Steelers used a draft pick on Harvin III, I would be very surprised if he doesn’t win the job. Just look at his highlights.
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A lot could change between now and when the Steelers have to cut the roster down to 53 players, and I hope it comes in the form of some free-agent additions. For now, though, these are the 53 guys I would be going into the season with if I had to pick today. While there are some weak spots, I think this would be a very competitive roster if all the pieces fall into place.