With the Pittsburgh Steelers entering their preseason finale with the Carolina Panthers, time is running out. Players on the roster bubble have limited opportunities moving forward to find ways to bypass their competition. Producing a strong training camp and preseason has pushed unlikely 53-man roster candidates to the forefront. Their efforts have been terrific.
Although some have built off a strong training camp and carried that over into game settings, that might not be enough.
There are several players who must have magnificent outings against Carolina to have a shot at sticking on the roster. Otherwise, they might be forced to find a job elsewhere or re-sign with the Steelers as a member of their practice squad.
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Lew Nichols, RB
It's a loaded running back group for Pittsburgh, and they have tough decisions to make. Jaylen Warren and Kaleb Johnson will hold most of the snaps on offense this year, and Kenneth Gainwell appears set to have a role. The backup running backs of Trey Sermon, Evan Hull, and Lew Nichols are battling for spots on the practice squad. Their offensive line has made things difficult.
The blocking up front has been questionable for most of the preseason. It has forced the running backs to create their own plays. Nichols has been the best in this scenario through two games. He has found different ways to remain effective during his limited playing time. His ability to carry that into the final contest against the Panthers could secure him a spot on the practice squad.
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D'Shawn Jamison, CB
One name that is rarely mentioned but has produced a strong summer outing is D'Shawn Jamison. The journeyman cornerback has jumped around the NFL since going undrafted in 2023. He has found a way to stay consistent from training camp to now. He has played most of his time in the slot, which Pittsburgh could use some help with regarding their depth chart.
With Beanie Bishop having an up-and-down preseason and rookie Donte Kent out with injury, the stage is set for Jamison. He brings some experience, even if it isn't as extensive or distinguished as that of other veteran players. The Steelers could use some help at the slot cornerback position on the 53-man roster, but the practice squad seems like Jamison's landing spot.
Max Hurleman, WR/RB
He has position versatility, but the Steelers have focused on developing Max Hurleman as a receiver lately. He can play both positions and can be an effective returner. He hasn't gotten many chances on special teams, which sinks his chances of making the team.
The undrafted rookie has quickly risen from an undrafted tryout to someone in the roster conversation.
His first preseason game was fantastic after a strong training camp. Hurleman didn't have the best outing in their second preseason matchup, which has dropped their odds of making the club. Unless the Steelers see a monumental shift in game three of the preseason, it's unlikely Hurleman will make the 53-man roster. He might settle for a practice squad year ahead.