Not everything is cut and dry for the Pittsburgh Steelers as they head to training camp. The preseason process is a long and winding road that leads to different outcomes. Don't be surprised if a couple of players not gaining consideration for the 53-man roster eventually make their way into the conversation before final cuts. There could be a handful of instances.
The Steelers have several roster spots up for grabs, but some positions will pose more trouble to make the team than others. The outside linebacker (EDGE) spot is full of talented pass rushers going into training camp. Pittsburgh projects to keep four at the position, and those spots are set in stone barring injury.
If another outside linebacker produces a fantastic preseason, however, the Steelers could keep five.
Julius Welschof is a German-born player who is entering his second year with the organization. He lit the NFL world on fire last year after producing big moments during preseason action. The international up-and-comer played his way into the roster conversation previously, but a season-ending knee injury cut everything short. He will attempt an encore this time around.
Pittsburgh Steelers could hold Julius Welschof on the roster with a terrific training camp
Welschof has had a tough injury to recover from, but he should be back to normal. He has shown that he can compete in the NFL despite being a raw player. He hasn't played football his entire life, which is a far cry from most players in the league. He should have a chance to compete at training camp and earn a roster spot either in Pittsburgh or find an employer elsewhere.
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Last preseason, he showed his skill set during limited action. He created consistent pressure during his opportunities. He produced three sacks, which tied him for second place across the entire NFL preseason last year. Another performance like that should get him noticed around the NFL. The Steelers would consider keeping him on their 53-man roster if he produced another three sacks or more.
The German still faces a daunting challenge ahead.
Welschof has plenty of talent in front of him with T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith leading the way. Nick Herbig remains a promising depth piece for Pittsburgh, and they drafted Jack Sawyer in the fourth round of the NFL Draft this year. Welschof and his fellow players down the depth chart have a lot of work to accomplish if they want a realistic shot at making the team.
The forgotten edge rusher is on no one's radar going into training camp, but he should be. He created havoc for opposing offenses last preseason, and he should be stronger in his second time around. The Steelers don't need to keep him, but they will make room if he bursts onto the scene. If he can build off last year, there will be plenty of suitors lined up if Pittsburgh lets him go.