Just because someone makes a 53-man roster doesn't mean the decision will last an entire season. For those Pittsburgh Steelers players who made the team, they must continue to show their worth, while those on the practice squad must use their limited opportunities to get their names back into the conversation.
At the end of the day, those on the outside looking in have a lot of ground to make up.
No matter whether a player made the initial roster or got downgraded to the practice squad, there is ongoing competition between those bubble players. Sometimes making the practice squad is a nice way to create a path to the 53-man roster. With different elevations available on a weekly basis throughout the season, don't be surprised if members of the Steelers practice squad see immediate playing time.
Members of the Pittsburgh Steelers practice squad who could shake up this season's 53-man roster
Will: Travis Homer
It was a surprise when it was announced that Eli Heidenreich made the team this summer, but that isn't terrible news for Travis Homer. The veteran's quality play on special teams throughout his career is evident, which means everyone should expect him to be elevated from the practice squad on game days.
Pittsburgh could use some more savvy players in the third phase of football, and Homer gives them that.
Will: Esezi Otomewo
There is a decent number of pieces on the 53-man roster in the trenches, but some of those players are unproven. The defensive line might falter if the younger guys cannot carry over their preseason success. It wouldn't be shocking to see the Steelers pull the plug on them and search for veteran help. Esezi Otomewo is a dependable player who could get called up from the practice squad.
Will: Max Hurleman
You can see flashes of potential with Max Hurleman, and that has been the case over the past two summers. Neither time has been enough for him to earn a job on the roster, but that could change. Special teams will be vital for guys trying to take that next step.
If Eli Heidenreich and Kaden Wetjen struggle as returners and receivers, it could help propel Hurleman into the conversation for a promotion.
Will: Doneiko Slaughter
After no one expected much from him going into the preseason process, Doneiko Slaughter made consistent plays. He might not be the level of player you want to be a starter right now, but he could provide meaningful snaps as a depth piece. Slaughter is an interesting option on the Steelers' practice squad who could be waiting for injuries to the secondary to make his way onto the team.
Won't: Julius Welschof
Time continues to be the enemy of Julius Welschof, who remains the international pathway player for the Steelers. The German-born outside linebacker just hasn't taken a step forward in his production that you'd prefer. His spot on the practice squad seems justified, but there is no room for Welschof on the 53-man roster. Next summer might be a career-defining camp for him in Pittsburgh.
Won't: Kyler Baugh
Not making the roster is difficult even if you revert to the practice squad. Although he quieted as the games went on, Kyler Baugh had a tremendous first matchup of the preseason. His availability on the practice unit is solid, but his chances of getting elevated remain low. The possibilities of a shakeup happening across the defensive line are high, but Baugh probably won't be a realistic choice.
Won't: Car'lin Vigers
Most of the Steelers' practice squad is made up of players who failed to initially make their 53-man roster, but not all. There are a couple of new faces in the building, and one of those is Car'lin Vigers. It's a crowded secondary for the club, and the chances of Vigers earning a roster elevation remain low. He might have a better shot at making the team next summer rather than making an impact this year.
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