It is still early to project the Pittsburgh Steelers’ 53-man roster, even after Aaron Rodgers officially re-signed with the team. There is significant time remaining before final cuts for players to make their case and compete for roster spots. While Rodgers’ return adds a new layer to the decision-making process, it does not mean he will control it entirely.
His presence and experience could carry weight in close or contested situations and give him some level of influence if decisions become difficult.
Training camp and the preseason will ultimately determine how the 53-man roster takes shape. Players will have valuable time to compete and prove to the coaching staff that they deserve a spot. The organization must also decide whether to prioritize a veteran-driven push to compete immediately or take a more balanced approach that keeps an eye on future development.
Pittsburgh Steelers could allow Aaron Rodgers to have massive impact on 53-man roster
Quarterback (3): Aaron Rodgers, Drew Allar, Mason Rudolph
After Aaron Rodgers announced he is officially back, the Steelers could face a difficult situation at the quarterback position.
They must decide whether to choose between Will Howard and Mason Rudolph or keep four players at the position. While Howard currently appears to have the inside track, Rudolph may be the safer choice as the backup if Pittsburgh prefers to rely on his experience in case Rodgers were to get hurt.
Running back/Fullback (4): Jaylen Warren, Rico Dowdle, Kaleb Johnson, Riley Nowakowski
There are several ways the running back room could take shape, but this group appears to be the early favorite for the 53-man roster. The team has a reliable duo in Jaylen Warren and Rico Dowdle, along with Kaleb Johnson as a capable option, while rookie Riley Nowakowski has the potential to quickly exceed expectations. Unless an unexpected standout emerges, this will probably be it.
Wide receiver (6): DK Metcalf, Michael Pittman Jr., Germie Bernard, Ben Skowronek, Kaden Wetjen, Eli Heidenreich
Unless the team adds a veteran free agent or Eli Heidenreich struggles, this group is likely to make up the receiving corps. Aaron Rodgers should be encouraged by the improved talent brought in at the position this offseason, as it is both deeper and more reliable. As long as the unit avoids significant injuries, it should have plenty of capable weapons to target.
Tight end (3): Pat Freiermuth, Darnell Washington, Marcedes Lewis
The Steelers could still benefit from adding another tight end to the roster. Given that Aaron Rodgers has familiarity with Marcedes Lewis from their time together in Green Bay, he could be a fit here. Lewis claims they discussed the possibility of retiring together. The veteran would provide immediate value as a blocker while also serving as a strong mentor for a similarly styled player like Darnell Washington.
Offensive line (9): Taylor Decker, Troy Fautanu, Brock Hoffman, Zach Frazier, Mason McCormick, Max Iheanachor, Dylan Cook, Broderick Jones (PUP), Gennings Dunker, Spencer Anderson
It appears Troy Fautanu is set to take over at left tackle, but if the Steelers want to stabilize the offensive line without shifting players around, signing free agent Taylor Decker would make sense.
He is a proven veteran and a dependable blindside protector. That would provide Aaron Rodgers with added confidence in his protection and help solidify what would be a strong offensive line.
Defensive line (7): Cam Heyward, Derrick Harmon, Keeanu Benton, Yahya Black, Sebastian Joseph-Day, Dean Lowry, Gabriel Rubio
The Steelers previously considered adding Dean Lowry to the roster, and that possibility remains. Bringing in another veteran defensive lineman would align with a more competitive approach following Aaron Rodgers’ return. Such a move could significantly impact the construction of the 53-man roster while creating a defensive line that balances youthful potential with experienced depth.
EDGE (4): T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, Nick Herbig, Jack Sawyer
There are no real surprises here, as Pittsburgh has a clear idea of who its edge rushers will be heading into the preseason. Unless the group is hit by a significant injury or two, these are likely to be the players on the roster by Week 1 of the regular season. The unit features a strong mix of experienced talent, along with Jack Sawyer, who has plenty to prove after a quiet rookie campaign.
Linebacker (5): Patrick Queen, Payton Wilson, Cole Holcomb, Malik Harrison, Carson Bruener
Although it would not be surprising to see the Steelers make changes to this group, time is becoming a factor. At this point, it appears they may stick with last season’s depth chart while hoping for improved results, but that approach carries risk if performance remains the same.
Adding an impactful player would be ideal, even though that possibility has become less likely following the draft.
Secondary (9): Joey Porter Jr., Jamel Dean, Jalen Ramsey, Jaquan Brisker, DeShon Elliott, Brandin Echols, Daylen Everette, Asante Samuel Jr., Robert Spears-Jennings
Similar to the wide receiver group, the secondary has been significantly improved this offseason.
The Steelers added considerable depth and talent across the unit, leaving only one or two clearly obvious spots still up for grabs. In this 53-man roster projection, the team rounds out the depth chart with two young players in Asante Samuel Jr. and Robert Spears Jennings.
Specialist (3): Chris Boswell (P), Cameron Johnston (P), Christian Kuntz (LS)
Outside of Chris Boswell, who is fresh off a big extension, this unit isn't as cut and dry as usual. Cameron Johnston and Christian Kuntz could be headed for a training camp battle at their positions. While competition may be limited, both players will still need to earn their spots this summer. Pittsburgh is expected to rely on this group of specialists for the season, though changes remain possible as the coming months unfold.
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