It was finally time to hear from the Pittsburgh Steelers’ new coordinators during OTAs. Their interviews offered valuable insight into the coaching staff and how each plans to approach their side of the ball. New special team's coordinator Danny Crossman faces significant expectations as he steps in to replace Danny Smith.
One of the best ways for a player on the fringe of the roster to catch the attention of top decision-makers is by making plays on special teams. That is often how those lower on the depth chart secure a spot on the team. For late-round picks, undrafted players, or NFL journeymen, their best opportunity typically comes in this phase of the game.
Running back Travis Homer has built his career in exactly that way.
During his media availability at OTAs, the Steelers’ new special teams coordinator did not hold back when praising Homer. Danny Crossman highlighted the player as a prime example of what can happen when players fully commit to special teams.
It may be premature to include the veteran in 53-man roster projections, but he has clearly made a strong early impression on his new coach.
Danny Crossman could demand to keep Travis Homer on the Pittsburgh Steelers' roster
Many did not pay much attention to the veteran after he signed with Pittsburgh as a free agent on March 24. His chances of making the roster appeared slim earlier in the offseason, and they have only become more challenging since then. The Steelers added ten rookies through the draft, along with several undrafted players.
While the odds are stacked against Homer, his chances of sticking around are not zero.
This is not unfamiliar territory for the Steelers’ newest addition. He has been battling for a roster spot since entering the NFL as a sixth-round pick in 2019. Homer has never stood out as a traditional running back, but his ability and willingness to contribute on special teams could help him earn an opportunity. His new coach clearly recognized that value, which played a role in signing him.
"He's a relentless, smart player," Crossman said while describing Homer's play.
Finding a way onto the final 53-man roster will be extremely difficult at this point. He will need an outstanding training camp and preseason to move ahead of those in front of him on the depth chart. The biggest obstacle is the group ahead of him, including Jaylen Warren, Rico Dowdle, Kaleb Johnson, and Eli Heidenreich.
It is a tough path, but if Homer performs at a high level on special teams, he could still put himself in the mix.
Homer has never been a standout player, but he is someone the team can trust because of his experience. The challenge is the number of players ahead of him on the depth chart, which makes it difficult for him to secure a roster spot.
Crossman’s comments at OTAs gave him a boost, but unless he delivers an exceptional performance, he will likely be among the final cuts.
Add us as a preferred source on Google