The Pittsburgh Steelers are closing in on their final decisions on the 53-man roster. Training camp is now in their rearview mirror, and the two remaining preseason games are where players must prove their worth. They will take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers this week.
Their combined practices, mixed with the game itself, should give players a chance to gain traction in the roster conversation.
Time has quickly become an enemy for those still trying to prove their worth to the organization. Those who are struggling to hang onto a job have only two preseason contests left. There are key veteran pieces on the depth chart who must win their spots with the team. Otherwise, they could find themselves out of a job. They need a massive outing against the Buccaneers.
A roster spot could be waiting if these members of the Pittsburgh Steelers shine
Andrus Peat, OT
He has become a common name to make the club in 53-man roster projections, but nothing is cemented for Andrus Peat. The veteran offensive lineman was added to the team late in training camp and must now earn a roster spot. His position versatility and vast amount of starting experience help his cause. He can play offensive tackle and guard when called upon.
His current competition includes Dylan Cook, Gareth Warren, and Steven Jones. It seems like Cook is his toughest battle to overcome. A strong outing against the Bucs could help Peat remain in the roster conversation. If the veteran lineman struggles, he could lose ground. The Steelers' late addition to the trenches makes a ton of sense on paper to keep around, but he must earn it.
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Carson Bruener, LB
It hasn't been terrible for Carson Bruener during his first go-around at the NFL level. The Steelers' seventh-round selection from this past draft hasn't stood out, but he hasn't flopped completely. His ability to make plays on special teams is where he must produce. Thus far, he hasn't been able to accomplish that task. The inside linebacker position is loaded with talent, and it's shoved Bruener low on the depth chart.
Mark Robinson remains the likely winner of the final spot on the 53-man roster. Bruener has yet to force a difficult choice for Pittsburgh's top decision-makers. Robinson has shown more flashes on special teams and as a depth linebacker. The coaching staff also forced Robinson into some snaps as a fullback.
Bruener faces a steep uphill climb, but an impressive performance against Tampa could resolve many concerns.
Scotty Miller, WR
Things were bleak regarding Scotty Miller's future with the Steelers heading into training camp. He has resurrected his chances of making the roster, and it appears he is on schedule to stick around. The veteran receiver is heading into his second year with the team, but he failed to carve out a big role on a struggling offense last year.
This time around could be different for Miller.
Pittsburgh has a lot of bodies on the depth chart for the receiver position. Miller is battling with Robert Woods, Roc Taylor, and other younger pieces for the final spot on the 53-man roster. After a terrific start to the preseason, Miller is the favorite to keep his job. Another fantastic performance in the preseason against the Bucs might move him closer to solidifying his spot.