Week 1 of preseason action benefited some Pittsburgh Steelers players, while others struggled. Those who had rough outings have a perfect shot at redemption in their second preseason game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. With training camp now completed, the players have their best opportunities to show their worth during game action.
Time is running out for players trying to secure their positions on the depth chart.
Last week's contest saw the Steelers struggle to run the ball effectively, but their passing game was consistent. They won the ball game, but it wasn't perfect. The preseason isn't the time to make everything pretty. It’s time for teams to finalize their 53-man rosters and address their issues. Pittsburgh would love to see specific players and parts of their game improve.
Pittsburgh Steelers hope for these three rebounds in their second preseason battle against Buccaneers
Kaleb Johnson, RB
Not everything was Kaleb Johnson's fault during his first outing as a member of the Steelers. He showed some positive signs against the Jacksonville Jaguars, but he needs more seasoning. Having more exposure to in-game action against a solid Bucs defense should aid his development. His potential as an NFL running back is crystal clear, but he must progress.
Jaylen Warren remains the top running back for Pittsburgh, and unless Johnson produces a massive conclusion to the preseason, that will keep its course. The rookie tailback must improve his pass blocking and his ability to become a reliable pass catcher. He showed some positives against the Jaguars, but this game against Tampa could show his progress in real time.
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Sebastian Castro, S
Making an NFL roster as an undrafted free agent is never easy, and time has been the enemy of Sebastian Castro. He appeared primed to challenge for a spot on the depth chart, but those odds have dropped off a cliff. The rookie defensive back didn't have a great training camp, and his preseason debut wasn't spectacular. He must have a terrific rebound against Tampa Bay.
Castro sits in a room with DeShon Elliott, Juan Thornhill, Chuck Clark, and Miles Killebrew ahead of him.
It's unlikely Castro has a shot at making the 53-man roster with the veterans in front of him, but it's not impossible. If the rookie safety can expose a quality special teams element to his game, he could re-enter the conversation. Unless things turn on their head, Castro is on the outside looking in.
Run blocking
Overall, Pittsburgh's offensive line gained high praise for its performance against the Jaguars. Their pass protection was fantastic against a solid defensive front from Jacksonville. The Bucs have a good defensive unit, and it will challenge them once more. The Steelers' trench warfare showed a common issue against the Jaguars: their inability to create quality rushing lanes.
Most of the running plays failed to make much ground last week. It is something the coaching staff is leaning on to succeed this season. They have some solid options at the running back position, but they won't have a shot at survival if they are met in the backfield on a routine basis. The starting offensive line must figure this part of their game out, or it'll be more of the same.