USFL players Steelers must keep a close eye on as season kicks off

A former draft bust could be depth on the defensive line if he proves himself

Adding to the defensive line might be best utilized through the NFL Draft later this month. It seems like nose tackle might be the biggest need besides depth and a future potential starter. The Steelers need to find those answers soon and the draft will be the best way to add quality to the trenches of the defensive line.

One of the bigger names participating in the USFL this season is Robert Nkemdiche. He was a highly sought after player coming out of college before he got flagged with some concerns entering his draft year. That caused him to slip some and struggle in the league when he finally got there. He has been on a few practice squads over the past couple of seasons and even played in the USFL last year.

This defensive tackle will play for the Michigan Panthers for another season with the hope of having a monster campaign. He got noticed by the NFL before and will try to get his name back into the spotlight. Perhaps he will be too rich of a player for a bottom depth role for the Steelers defensive line, but he has the pedigree that could warrant a pre-season tryout if he can perform with the Panthers.