An article recently posted by Bleacher Report lists the biggest roster bubble candidates around the NFL. Notable names have made the list, and several are a good fit for the Pittsburgh Steelers. If some of these players get cut by their current employer, it wouldn't shock anyone to see General Manager Omar Khan finding a way to land some to help their depth chart.
Pittsburgh has a solid chance to see a strong offensive line this season, but there are no guarantees. Training camp and the preseason have exposed their issues regarding the depth in the trenches. They could use some proven veterans to help fill vital roles up front. The Steelers need help across their roster, but the offensive line remains an overlooked area.
The rest of the preseason will determine whether these veteran offensive linemen become available from their current teams.
It would be wise for Pittsburgh to consider them as reasonable choices if they do become available. There are always shocking cuts when it's time to shrink the team to its final 53-man roster. The Steelers could benefit immensely if they could land some upgrades.
Pittsburgh Steelers could target roster bubble players to boost their depth chart
Cole Strange, OL, New England Patriots
In the NFL, draft pedigree often holds significant weight. Cole Strange is a former first-round pick, though many considered him a reach at the time. Everyone was shocked to see him get selected that high coming out of Chattanooga. With an influx of offensive linemen at New England and a new coaching staff, they might cut Strange. The veteran lineman has seen his role diminish rapidly.
Pittsburgh wouldn't be getting a solid starter by landing this player. He would get cut from the Patriots for a reason. Some have labeled him a bust, but in reality, he was set to fail since he was taken far too soon during the draft. The Steelers could use some starting experience at the center and guard positions.
Their depth chart would see a significant boost with Strange in the fold.
READ MORE: Tampa Bay hidden gem might be surprise fit for Steelers roster
Evan Neal, OL, New York Giants
He hasn't turned much of a corner since being the seventh overall pick during the 2022 NFL Draft, but Evan Neal is trying to save his football life. He was given a chance as a starting tackle, but it didn’t work out. He has now earned significant snaps as a guard, which is normally a last-ditch effort before someone is officially labeled a bust. This might be the last shot for him as a starter.
The New York Giants have a lot of issues along their offensive line, so they might keep Neal for depth if nothing else.
He hasn't shown much progress as a guard at training camp or the preseason, which means his release isn't out of the question. Strange is more likely to land with the Steelers since his job security is less than Neal's. Don't be shocked if Neal does become available if his lackluster preseason continues.