With ongoing concerns surrounding the Pittsburgh Steelers' receiver position, everyone is looking for a savior. Many believe the team could add someone to their roster before Week 1 of the regular season, but there is optimism that a young playmaker will emerge at training camp. There are unproven players on the club, but they must earn their positioning on the depth chart.
Roc Taylor joined the Steelers as an undrafted free agent, and things are starting to click. He has been consistently making plays at training camp and has caught the eyes of many in attendance. His stock is on the rise, and if he can maintain this momentum, he could secure a job.
Making the roster is one thing, but working his way to become a starter is another.
The undrafted receiver has a long way to go before a spot on the 53-man roster is locked up. It's hard for a rookie in his spot to win an NFL job, let alone start to gain starting reps. Taylor has plenty of work in front of him, but if injuries start to pile up at training camp, he could see more chances come his way. Nothing will be easy for him, but he is on the right path.
Pittsburgh Steelers could count on Roc Taylor to help their issues at wide receiver
Taylor has been a consistent force at training camp. He has found ways to make plays daily, and many on the roster have taken notice. Will Howard, the Steelers' sixth-round pick, has worked closely with Taylor. He had nothing but strong compliments about his fellow rookie. They are forming chemistry, and it could lead to a strong finish during the preseason process.
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"He's a hell of a player. He's been making some plays. When the ball seems to go his way, it seems like good things are happening," Howard said.
It's not all sunshine and rainbows for the undrafted receiver. He has plenty of talented players who remain in front of him on the depth chart. If Taylor wants a shot at making the team, he must jump in front of a handful of veteran players. Nothing will be easy, but that is common for a player of his stature. Taylor is entering the conversation to make the roster, but he must keep his momentum going.
Right now, veterans like Ben Skowronek, Scotty Miller, and Brandon Johnson remain in the roster hunt.
Taylor must beat out at least two of those names to have even an outside shot of making the team after training camp concludes. Life as an undrafted rookie isn't easy, but things remain positive for the receiver. He has shown an uncanny ability to make plays; now he must continue that success.
Pittsburgh signed Taylor as one of their top targets during undrafted free agency following the NFL Draft. He was a terrific player during his collegiate career. He appeared in 26 games over his final two years there and produced great numbers. Taylor tallied 2,033 yards and six touchdowns during that stretch. His productive resume has aided his roster conversation.