6 backend roster Steelers to watch during Hall of Fame game

Steelers Zach Gentry

One of the most pleasant surprises in training camp so far, Zach Gentry is finally showing some development as a tight end. The majority of his first two seasons have been underwhelming, and his roster spot was given to him due to the lack of other options and the fifth-round pick the team has invested in him. He has been noted as a more physical catcher so far in training camp and has used his immense size to gain better position over defenders during physical catches.

All of that said, he still needs to show more, specifically in a game setting, before anyone should be comfortable with him making the roster. Training camp structures its practices to benefit the offense, so a physical giant like Gentry should be able to succeed right now. He needs to be able to translate on the field in an actual game setting. If he can’t do that, it won’t much matter how impressive he has looked in camp.

As well, there has been little note on his blocking. His height gives him a natural disadvantage here, but if he wants to stick on the roster, he needs to be able to block well. Ideally, he shows some development there against the Cowboys. He doesn’t need to be an all-star blocker by any means, but he has to be able to hold his own there. This game is vital for him, as he will either reaffirm the positive reports that have come out of camp, or he will falter and draw doubt to just how much better he has actually gotten this offseason.