Following their final preseason game against the Carolina Panthers, the Pittsburgh Steelers face some tough decisions. Their final 53-man roster has witnessed countless competitions across the depth chart, and certain situations are solving themselves. With training camp and most of the preseason process behind them, their final decisions are starting to become evident.
While some choices regarding the roster construction have become crystal clear, others still have time to alter course. The Steelers could change their minds with the final roster spots to complete the team based on the outcome of the game against the Panthers.
Pittsburgh is running out of time to decide, and there are roster bubble players who must ball out to get into the conversation.
Pittsburgh Steelers on the roster bubble who must put on a show in preseason finale
Robert Woods, WR
It appeared obvious that Robert Woods would stick on the 53-man roster for the Steelers, but the opposite has happened. It seems more likely that the veteran gets cut rather than staying around town. He hasn't done anything special at training camp and has only caught one pass through two games this preseason. Time is running out in a hurry for the 12-year NFL veteran.
Not all is lost for the former star receiver.
He has a path to make this team, but he must produce a strong outing against Carolina. There are no guarantees that the coaching staff is as critical of Woods' lack of preseason success as others. He could have a safer roster spot than many projects. Realistically, he should be concerned about his chances of making the team due to his lack of playmaking ability.
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Sebastian Castro, S
This past weekend was a strong bounce back for Sebastian Castro, but the undrafted safety has more ground to gain. Entering the NFL as an undrafted player makes it harder to reach a 53-man roster. Having a transition period makes it more difficult. Castro started slow at training camp and extended that into the preseason. Hopefully for him, something clicked last game.
Pittsburgh could be persuaded to keep an extra player at the position if Castro proves himself. They have DeShon Elliott, Chuck Clark, Juan Thornhill, and Miles Killebrew in front of him on the pecking order. The odds are still stacked against the defensive back, but not as much as before. If he can have a fantastic finish to the preseason, he can get back into the roster conversation.
Dylan Cook, OT
There is a persistent issue along the offensive line that could lead to chaos if injuries occur.
They need some upgrades up front, but the Steelers might need to rely on what they have. Dylan Cook is someone who has been with the team for a while, but he hasn't been able to stick on the field due to performance and injuries.
The former undrafted offensive tackle has seen work at both sides at training camp, and could become a backup swing tackle if needed. Pittsburgh has Calvin Anderson as their top backup, but neither he nor Cook has been terrific. The roster bubble player has a chance to make the team and potentially earn a significant role with a strong preseason finale