While the Steelers’ start to the season hasn’t been what most have hoped for, these four role players have been quietly great so far.
The Steelers have plenty of issues on their team right now, but despite their early struggles, some players have really stepped up their game. While not traditional starters, these players have stepped up in the case of injury or developed key roles despite not starting.
Here are the four Steelers depth players that have played extremely well.
Steelers Joe Haeg
The original signing of Joe Haeg was a bit puzzling. While the swing tackle was a good player with the Buccaneers, his contract averaging around 2.25 million dollars a season was extremely high. While not expected to contribute much outside of some reserve snaps, Haeg has had to step in for injury and has held his own for the most part.
He has only played 28 percent of the offensive snaps so far, including one start against the Packers, and his play has been consistent. PFF grades him at 67.2 overall, which is one of the highest grades for a Steelers lineman. Again, he isn’t regularly playing, but when he has, he has done more than enough to earn his contract.
Better yet, Haeg actually had to fill in at left tackle last week, and once again, he showed that he can handle it. No, the Steelers don’t need to get Haeg more snaps, but keeping him around as a depth tackle and injury starter is perfect for this team right now. While his play hasn’t been revolutionary, he has been a steady piece on a line that has struggled so far.