The Steelers' mandatory minicamp has just wrapped up, marking the end of a crucial part of the offseason. We're now only a couple of months away from the training camp kicking off at St. Vincent, which will be another significant step in preparing for the upcoming season.
With several roster moves happening over the past week, the team is starting to take shape. Here is a prediction of how the Steelers' 53-man roster would look if the season started today.
Steelers 2024 depth chart prediction after minicamp
Quarterbacks (3): Russell Wilson, Justin Fields, Kyle Allen
The Steelers typically maintain three quarterbacks on their 53-man roster. Given the challenges faced last year with injuries, and considering the entirely new quarterback room this season, it’s essential to leverage the updated rule allowing teams to keep three quarterbacks on the roster. This approach not only provides a buffer against potential injuries but also ensures that the team has adequate depth and readiness at the quarterback position.
Running back(3): Najee Harris, Jaylen Warren, Cordarrelle Patterson
Jaylen Warren and Najee Harris are definite locks for the roster and are poised to be focal points of the offense. In light of the new kickoff changes, Omar Khan and his team ensured they stayed ahead of the curve by signing Cordarrelle Patterson, one of the league’s greatest kickoff returners ever. This strategic move is a direct response to the recent rule changes, aiming to maintain a competitive edge on special teams.
Tight Ends(4): Pat Freiermuth, Darnell Washington, Connor Heyward, MyCole Pruitt
In an Arthur Smith offense, tight ends always play a crucial role and tend to thrive. The Steelers currently have four unique tight ends, each bringing different strengths to the team. Considering how important this position group is to Smith's offensive strategy, I expect the team to keep all four tight ends on the roster, even though it's not something they usually do. This highlights the significance of tight ends in making the offense effective and versatile.
Wide Receiver(5): George Pickens, Roman Wilson, Calvin Austin III, Quez Watkins, Marquez Callaway
If the Steelers decide against pursuing a trade for a wide receiver, contrary to widespread expectations, I foresee their wide receiver group featuring multiple speedsters. This unit would showcase a blend of dynamic talents: several players known for their deep threat capabilities, a rookie specializing in the slot, and George Pickens, who appears poised to contribute in various roles this season. Given the team's anticipated preference for heavier offensive packages over the frequent use of empty backfields, the composition of this wide receiver corps will be influenced by a variety of factors.
Offensive Tackles(4): Broderick Jones, Troy Fautanu, Dan Moore, Dylan Cook
The Steelers made a significant move in this year's draft by choosing Troy Fautanu in the first round to potentially start at tackle this season. Recent comments from offensive line coach Pat Meyer suggest that Fautanu is likely to take on the role of right tackle. This decision would allow Broderick Jones to return to his natural position and provide valuable depth, with Dan Moore Jr. serving as a solid backup role and a dependable swing tackle option.
Offensive Guards(3): Isaac Seumalo, James Daniels, Mason McCormick
The starting guards from last year will remain unchanged, with rookie Mason McCormick poised to emerge as the primary backup for James Daniels. Nate Herbig is not included here, as I anticipate he will primarily focus on center snaps. However, his versatility across guard and center positions ensures he can step in wherever needed.
Center (2): Zach Frazier, Nate Herbig
Rookie Zach Frazier is poised to take the starting role from day one, showcasing his potential. However, Nate Herbig will also benefit significantly from valuable reps at center during training camp and preseason. Herbig's ability to play multiple positions adds a valuable layer of flexibility that is highly valued here in Pittsburgh.
Defensive End(4): Cam Heyward, Larry Ogunjobi, Dean Lowry, Isaiahh Loudermilk
The defensive end group this year closely resembles last year's, with the experienced Dean Lowry securing his position over rookie Logan Lee. Dermarvin Leal, who saw limited action and fell out of favor last season, will be officially released from the roster this year.
Defensive Tackles(2): Keeanu Benton, Montravius Adams
Keeanu Benton is set to anchor the team as the starting nose tackle, poised for a breakout season following an impressive rookie year. Behind him, Adams has proven his reliability in limited snaps, making him a dependable asset once more.
Edge (4): TJ Watt, Alex Highsmith, Nick Herbig, Jeremiah Moon
This position group will feature TJ Watt and Alex Highsmith returning as the starters, while Nick Herbig will step into a more prominent role as the primary backup edge rusher. Jeremiah Moon, formerly of the Ravens, rounds out the depth chart as the final outside linebacker.
Inside Linebackers (5): Patrick Queen, Elandon Roberts, Payton Wilson, Cole Holcomb , Mark Robinson
The Steelers have signed Patrick Queen as their primary starting inside linebacker, though there's uncertainty if Cole Holcomb will return this year following his knee injury last season. In Holcomb's absence, Elandon Roberts will start alongside Queen. Rookie Payton Wilson will serve as the top backup and handle dime backer duties in passing situations.
If Holcomb does return this season, Mark Robinson might be the player moved to accommodate his roster spot. Currently, the linebacker group stands at five, but depending on Holcomb's health, it could potentially shrink to four.
Cornerbacks (6): Joey Porter Jr, Donte Jackson, Cameron Sutton, Cory Trice, Ryan Watts, Beanie Bishop
Joey Porter Jr. and Donte Jackson are assuredly the team's starting cornerbacks, with Cameron Sutton reclaiming his role as the starting slot corner following his return after being released by the Detroit Lions. Cory Trice, entering his second year after recovering from an ACL injury, aims to regain his form and provide depth as an outside backup.
Among the rookies, Ryan Watts brings valuable versatility to potentially contribute at both cornerback and safety, enhancing his chances of securing a roster spot. Meanwhile, Beanie Bishop seeks to solidify his position as a backup slot cornerback, competing fiercely to earn his place on the team.
Safeties(4): Minkah Fitzptrick, DeShon Elliott, Damontae Kazee, Miles Killebrew
Minkah Fitzpatrick will reclaim his starting role, while newcomer DeShon Elliott is set to join him as the starting safety duo. Adding to the depth, Damontae Kazee brings valuable experience as a capable backup with extensive starting experience. Additionally, Miles Killebrew solidifies his position as the team's standout special teams ace.
Specialists (3): Chris Boswell, Cameron Johnston, Christian Kuntz
The team has added Cam Johnston as their new punter while ensuring continuity with their long-term starters returning at kicker and long snapper positions.