NFL cuts are running rampant right now as teams set their initial rosters, and while the Pittsburgh Steelers can’t make any moves for these players right now, in roughly 24 hours, waiver claims will be processed. Though the team is focused on their own roster, they are also looking over the league and seeing what players are becoming available.
One name in particular may be sending the team running to the waiver wire.
While fans have been quick to latch onto Malachi Corley (and for good reason), the better position fit has to be tight end Jelani Woods. The former third-round pick was released by the Colts and will be subject to waiver claims.
Woods was the big, athletic tight end before Darnell Washington came out of Georgia. At 6’7 and roughly 260 pounds, he showcased freak athletic skills that made him a desirable prospect. That all translated into a solid rookie season for Woods.
Since then, he hasn’t been able to stay on the field, logging no snaps over the past two seasons. That said, Pittsburgh would be wise to try and add him to either their active roster or, at worst, their practice squad.
Jelani Woods can be the ultimate Darnell Washington insurance for the Pittsburgh Steelers
While everyone loves what Washington brings to the table, his unicorn status also makes him hard to replicate. Pat Freiermuth is a great possession target, while Jonnu Smith is a versatile receiver, but Washington is a mix of both a good receiver and a fierce blocker.
Woods isn’t quite the blocker that Washington is, but he is arguably a better athlete. At a minimum, he carries a similarly big frame and uses that to his advantage.
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For a fourth tight end, I would argue that he is an upgrade on offense over Connor Heyward (although Heyward has the leg up on special teams). Right now, you can stash Woods on the practice squad and elevate him when needed. This also keeps him around on the roster next offseason, even if he isn’t permanently added to the roster.
If Washington were to miss time with an injury, Woods could help fill that void. Arthur Smith is committed to using multiple tight end sets, so extra depth is always needed.
Looking down the road, Washington will be entering the last year of his rookie deal next year. At this time, it is unknown if he will get a new deal or not. Once again, Woods can be kept around as insurance.
While he needs to prove that he can stay healthy, as a depth tight end, that issue would be less prevalent. The Steelers also had interest in Woods before he was drafted. This is a match made in heaven, and Pittsburgh needs to pounce.