Fans are always eager to see how their favorite team improves its roster during free agency. The Pittsburgh Steelers remained active during the opening wave of signings and could still add more players in the coming weeks. While it is unlikely they will pursue any notable names at this point, even a smaller addition could impact a veteran’s chances of earning a spot on the final 53-man roster.
When the second wave of free agency is combined with the upcoming NFL Draft, a player’s chances of making the roster can shrink even further.
Several Steelers will face an uphill battle to earn a spot on the final roster, and the competition is only expected to intensify. To survive, they must stand out throughout training camp and navigate the preseason gauntlet successfully. If they fail to do so, they may find themselves searching for opportunities elsewhere.
The Pittsburgh Steelers on the brink of disaster following an electric start to free agency
Mason Rudolph, QB
For now, Mason Rudolph sits comfortably on the Steelers’ depth chart, but that situation is likely to change. Aaron Rodgers is expected to re-sign at some point, with Will Howard projected to serve as his backup. If Pittsburgh adds another quarterback in the NFL Draft, Rudolph could find himself without a roster spot. With plenty of movement still ahead, his outlook appears increasingly grim.
Logan Lee, DT
Many are likely to leave Logan Lee off their projected 53-man roster heading into training camp, and for understandable reasons. He received some opportunities this past season but failed to make an impact. As a former sixth-round pick from 2024, his development has not progressed enough.
Lee will still have a chance to compete for a roster spot, but if he does not take a noticeable step forward, his time with the team could be coming to an end.
Roman Wilson, WR
The Steelers opened free agency by acquiring Michael Pittman Jr. via trade, a move that creates a difficult situation for Roman Wilson. Pittsburgh has also been linked to nearly every wide receiver in the upcoming NFL Draft, and it is possible the team adds more than one rookie at the position. A new coaching staff and a reshaped wide receiver room place him in a precarious position.
Cory Trice, CB
Cory Trice slid in his draft class due to injury concerns, and unfortunately, those worries have followed him. He has struggled to stay healthy throughout his time with the Steelers, and the situation has not improved. While the cornerback has shown flashes of promise when he has been on the field, those opportunities have been rare.
With corners added in free agency and the possibility of more reinforcements arriving in the draft, Trice could soon find himself on the outside looking in for his roster spot.
Kaleb Johnson, RB
Moving on from a third-round pick just one year into his career is uncommon, but it is not impossible. That possibility cannot be dismissed with a new coaching staff. The Steelers could be willing to move on from Kaleb Johnson following a disappointing rookie season. The signing of Rico Dowdle to pair with Jaylen Warren in free agency only adds pressure, creating an unfavorable outlook for Johnson.