Everyone normally focuses on the superstars for the Steelers when it comes to the team's success. Those star players are almost always deserving of accolades, but that doesn't mean we shouldn't forget the quality players behind them either. They might not be household names in Pittsburgh, but they have played quality football. The Steelers should be highlighting them more often.
Going into the season, some players had minor expectations to surpass. That was either because they were coming off of poor campaigns or just coming into the Steelers organization. Fans should get to know these names because they could be impacting games down the stretch.
Without them, this team could begin to crumble and fall in the standings to an early playoff exit once again.
DeShon Elliott, S
One of the best moves in free agency, not just in Pittsburgh but around the NFL has been signing DeShon Elliott. He has been terrific for the Steelers, and some might even say he has outshone Minkah Fitzpatrick at different points this season. Adding Elliott was a terrific move because he can do it all. He can make plays on the ball, but he is not afraid to attack the run game either.
Mason McCormick, OG
Many thought Mason McCormick would take over as a starting guard next season, but he was thrust into that role a year early after James Daniels went down with an injury. He had to adjust to the NFL rather quickly and find his game on the go. McCormick has been terrific in that sense. Many rookies would have deflated in his situation, but the guard has found a way to become one of Pittsburgh's best linemen.
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Nick Herbig, EDGE
During the preseason process, many had high hopes for Nick Herbig to take a step forward in his progression with the Steelers. He has been able to exceed that with some big plays of his own. Both T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith get a lot of attention as star outside linebackers, but it's time to give Herbig his flowers. He needs to clean up some stuff against the run, but his pass-rush ability is undeniable.
Najee Harris, RB
After Pittsburgh declined Najee Harris' fifth-year option this past offseason, many had little expectations for him. Well, Harris has been able to produce quality numbers for the Steelers this year as he heads into free agency this upcoming offseason. If he can keep this pace going, or even improve then he should be able to get a nice payday when he officially becomes a free agent.
Donte Jackson, CB
Acquiring Donte Jackson might have left a gaping hole at receiver, but that is not his fault. Pittsburgh certainly won the Jackson trade after the level of play he has been able to perform at. He has been a part of one of the best cornerback tandems that the Steelers have had for a while. Jackson is a pending free agent, and it seems like the black and gold would love to have him back.