Steelers' practice squad players who could earn roster opportunities soon

This time of year normally brings a bunch of outside choices to jump onto a team as a potential upgrade. With the trade deadline getting closer, most eyes will be on that form of talent acquisition. We know the black and gold normally like to upgrade from within their ranks. That means depth players or practice squad members finding a way to fill voids on the roster.

As the year develops and either injury or issues on the depth chart start to get exposed, teams will get desperate. Pittsburgh is no different than any other team in this regard. If they want to find some internal options to potetnially provide an upgrade, it might be best to give someone on the practice squad a chance. They are raring for a chance to prove themselves on the football field.

Pittsburgh could call up some of these Steelers from the practice squad

Jack Colletto

Since Arthur Smith loves to run the football on offense, the team might have to get creative to get a strong run game going. Jack Colletto had a solid preseason, but he wasn't consistent enough. His ability to potentially open up the run game for Najee Harris and company could spark a boost in productivity. Colletto also plays special teams snaps, so that would only help his cause.

Thomas Graham Jr.

Slot cornerback remains an issue for the Steelers as Beanie Bishop hasn't been consistent enough. The Steelers seem confident that he can hold down the fort until Cam Sutton returns from suspension. Thomas Graham Jr. remains on the practice squad and he showed some flashes in the preseason. Graham could be an option to push Bishop for his job in the coming weeks.

Brandon Johnson

Everyone was hoping the Steelers would add an upgrade at wide receiver when final cuts happened. Instead, not much changed besides Brandon Johnson being signed to the practice squad. He is a big target who has some solid playing experience throughout his professional career. It will take for some bad performances by those in front of him, but Johnson isn't a slouch. He deserves a shot.

Marcus Haynes

Mike Tomlin and the Steelers expressed a lot of interest in Marcus Haynes when he was coming out of the draft. He now sits on their practice squad after barely any time with Pittsburgh this preseason. Since Alex Highsmith is out with injury, and Jeremiah Moon is still working his way back from his injury, Haynes could have a chance in front of him. It could be a chance to stick to the roster.

Jonathan Ward

No one fully knows what is going on with Jaylen Warren, but he is missing a lot of time due to injury this year. Harris and Cordarrelle Patterson should be able to handle the bulk of carries these next couple of games, but they might need help. Jonathan Ward is one of the most experienced players on the Steelers practice squad and could earn a role on offense if injuries at the position continue.