The intensity amplified during the second week of Steelers training camp practices. As soon as the pads came on, tempers flared and scuffles ensued. Fans have a tendency to focus on the 'highlight' moments from training camp, such as acrobatic catches, interceptions, and fights that are broken up by teammates.
Along with these highlight moments, the mainstream football media tends to follow the biggest names and the hottest draft picks. But we can't forget to mention the players on the roster bubble who are outperforming expectations.
These six players are not guaranteed a spot on the team, but they have made a very strong case for themselves to land on the Steelers' 53-man roster based on their performance at training camp so far.
CB Beanie Bishop Jr.
Despite his status as an undrafted rookie free agent, it hardly seems fair to call Beanie Bishop a fringe roster player on the Steelers. However, until proven otherwise, that's what he is. It won't stay that way for long.
Bishop has been one of the biggest stars of camp thanks to his impressive physicality and ability to mirror wide receivers from the slot cornerback position. Not only is this rookie UDFA on the fast track to a roster spot, but he could also carve out a significant role from day one if he keeps up at this pace.
CB Grayland Arnold
Bishop isn't the only slot cornerback performing well at Steelers training camp. Grayland Arnold is starting to work his way up the summer depth chart to give Bishop a run for his money.
Arnold spent his first two NFL seasons off and on with the Eagles beginning in 2020 before signing with the Texans in 2021. During his four years in the NFL, Arnold suited up for 26 games. More than half of his career defensive snaps came in 2023 with Houston. Arnold is fighting tooth and nail to earn a roster spot among a crowded group of defensive backs.
TE MyCole Pruitt
When MyCole Pruitt signed with the Steelers to rejoin Arthur Smith, he knew that Pittsburgh already had a few quality tight ends on the roster. Pat Freiermuth is the team's number one option at the position, while Darnell Washington and Connor Heyward each fill niche roles as the Y-tight end and H-back, respectively.
So far, Pruitt has put his veteran leadership and versatility on full display. The 32-year-old has worn multiple hats over the years as a tight end and H-back, and he's out to prove that he will do whatever is asked of him. Pruitt's strong performance at camp will give the Steelers more than enough reasons to keep a fourth tight end in 2024.
DL DeMarvin Leal
DeMarvin Leal is a 23-year-old player and Pittsburgh's third-round pick in 2022, so it may seem odd that he's on a list of fringe roster players. However, Leal fell out of favor with the team late in the 2023 season and was a healthy scratch.
Now looking to live up to his draft status, Leal entered training camp with guns blazing. He has displayed an explosive get-off when the ball is snapped and the relentless pursuit to chase down the ball carrier. Leal is competing with a handful of players near the bottom of the depth chart like Isaiahh Loudermilk and Logan Lee, but he's proving he belongs on the roster.
FB Jack Colletto
Teams don't often devote a roster spot to a true fullback in today's NFL, but Jack Colletto is giving the Steelers every reason to think he's worth sticking around. In addition to his impressive lead blocking, Colletto has showcased soft hands and a willingness to do it all.
It may not be possible for the Steelers to keep Colletto if they plan on four tight ends making the final roster, but an injury could change their thoughts on a moment's notice. Colletto is going to be a tough player to cut at this rate.
OT Dylan Cook
Dylan Cook has been solid, consistent, and reliable since showing up to Steelers camp in 2023 after a brief stint with the Buccaneers in 2022. The undrafted free agent out of Montana has worked as hard as anyone since joining the team and he has been running with the second-team offense at left tackle.
Unfortunately, Cook will only make the roster if the Steelers decide it's worthwhile to keep a fourth offensive tackle, as Dan Moore Jr., Broderick Jones, and Troy Fautanu are all roster locks at the OT position.