Receivers (6):
Steelers roster prediction: Diontae Johnson, George Pickens, Allen Robinson, Calvin Austin, Miles Boykin, Gunner Olszewski
I would argue my first real bold prediction comes with the receivers. Five names appear to be locked into their roles right now, and a sixth receiver is hardly a guarantee. That said, with running back being a lighter group, especially without a traditional fullback, I feel like a sixth receiver is logical.
The starters are set in stone. George Pickens is looking to build off of a strong rookie season and become an elite playmaker for this team. Diontae Johnson is looking for a rebound season, and to find the endzone this season. Allen Robinson is the third option, and while he was quiet in the preseason, he is a stable veteran presence.
I didn’t have Calvin Austin locked into a roster spot initially this offseason, but he quickly earned one. He flashed his big play potential both in practice and in games, and as of now, he seems poised to be the primary return man for this offense. Miles Boykin, meanwhile, is a great gunner on special teams even if his offensive value is limited.
Gunner Olszewski is my final receiver, even though I don’t think he is overly deserving of a roster spot. Brought in as a return man last year, he lost that role and wasn’t a factor on offense. That said, he seems like a consistent target for Pickett, and he provides a backup return man for this team.
Potential surprise cut: Olszewski
Not really a surprise here, but Olszewski is far from a lock. He has a slightly elevated salary that could yield some savings if he were released, and his role on the team isn’t all that important. That said, if the team does keep six receivers, he seems like a safe bet to crack the initial roster.