Steelers 2023 53-man roster prediction in the middle of the free agent frenzy

Completing the roster means adding a receiver and tight end

Receiver (5): Diontae Johnson, George Pickens, Calvin Austin III, Steven Simms, Nathaniel Dell (rookie)

For the most part, the top four names listed above are locks to make this roster heading into the later stage of the free agency process. Diontae Johnson and George Pickens make for a solid duo on offense, but the depth behind them is somewhat concerning. Miles Boykin will likely leave via free agency and that also leaves behind a giant hole on special teams.

Calvin Austin III will try to win the starting slot position in camp, but he has not proven anything in a stadium atmosphere to this point. Steven Simms is currently a free agent, but he will likely re-sign with Pittsburgh at some point and be the returner. Nathaniel Dell is the draft pick here as he has explosive play ability and a lot of production during his days at Houston.

Tight end (3): Pat Freiemuth, Connor Heyward, Zack Kuntz (rookie)

Pat Freiermuth has become one of the best tight ends in football and will make this team without question. The Steelers love him, and he should be able to continue his connection with Pickett this upcoming season. Connor Heyward had a surprisingly solid year during his rookie campaign. He should be able to handle a growing role heading into year two.

The Steelers need to figure out what they are going to do with the third opening at the position. It seems like they could target a tight end during the mid to late rounds of the upcoming draft. Ideally, they would re-sign Zach Gentry to a cheap deal, but that does not seem realistic right now.