Zach Gentry secured a roster spot that was in little danger in Pittsburgh
Would the Steelers keep four tight ends? That will be figured out over the weekend, but it seems safe to say that they will. Connor Heyward is the x-factor here as he continues to prove that he can play multiple positions across the offense. He might be listed as a tight end when the final roster is situated, but he is far more than that.
He will also play fullback and might get a few handoffs at running back too. These are things that he did in college and the Steelers seem keen on using his position versatility to their advantage. With Heyward getting some carries at the half back position in Thursday's game against the Falcons, it seems more likely than not that he will get some carries this year.
With Pat Freiermtuh and Darnell Washington also on the team, it made some curious about what the future holds with Zach Gentry. Adding Heyward's versatility into the equation makes Gentry a little more expendable. He is a great blocker and can make some catches when needed, but he is mostly known as a blocker.
With Washington likely needing some time to develop more at the position before expanding his role as a rookie, having someone like Gentry around is too valuable to let go. He is a liked guy in the locker room and put on a blocking clinic against the Falcons in the preseason finale. Gentry locked up his roster spot that is if it was ever in question in the first place.