No one should treat the outcome of the final Pittsburgh Steelers OTA practices as a final verdict on any of their players, but it can offer valuable early insight. OTAs should provide a clearer look at how the depth chart may begin to take shape as the team moves toward training camp later this summer. There will be plenty of storylines tied to position battles, giving observers several areas to watch closely during practices.
While OTAs may not determine the outcome of these position battles on the depth chart, it sets the foundation.
Players have an opportunity to make a strong early impression and put themselves in a favorable position heading into training camp. A poor showing during Steelers OTAs could make it much harder to recover and create positive momentum as the preseason progresses.
Pittsburgh Steelers OTAs have plenty to keep track of as roster battles heat up
QB Drew Allar
All eyes will be on the four quarterbacks at OTAs, and for good reason.
Drew Allar is expected to draw significant attention, especially after being selected in the third round of the 2026 draft. Many will be watching closely for signs of progress, and if those improvements are not visible, questions could begin to surface. The coaching staff has been focused on rebuilding his game, and the expectation is that he will start to show meaningful development soon.
CB Jamel Dean
One of Pittsburgh’s biggest moves in free agency was the addition of veteran cornerback Jamel Dean. He is expected to provide a significant boost to the secondary and form a strong pairing with Joey Porter Jr. Despite not receiving much attention heading into Steelers OTAs, Dean is a player fans should be watching closely. His presence has the potential to elevate the defense.
RB Kaleb Johnson
It is a crucial second season for Kaleb Johnson, who enters OTAs facing some pressure to perform. If he struggles to show that he can be a high-level running back, his chances of securing a meaningful role on the depth chart could quickly decline.
The concern is that Johnson has yet to prove he offers more than basic production at the position, which could become a significant issue as the team evaluates its options moving forward.
CB Daylen Everette
Few rookies have generated as much early buzz as Daylen Everette heading into Steelers OTAs. He's been overlooked when reviewing the team’s recent draft class, but he has a legitimate chance to make an immediate impact. Everette brings the kind of pedigree teams look for in a potential starter. To earn early snaps on defense, he will need to prove that he can be a reliable and versatile presence.
OL Dylan Cook
With Troy Fautanu expected to flip sides, this presents a major opportunity for Dylan Cook to not only secure a roster spot but also hold onto a starting role. He performed well at left tackle late last season, but a return to his natural position could put him in an even better position to succeed.
Cook cannot afford to become complacent in his current role, as any regression could quickly cost him relevance on the depth chart.
LB Payton Wilson
A returning starter may not have much to prove at OTAs, but Payton Wilson is entering a pivotal season for his long-term outlook. He has been a solid contributor, yet he has not separated himself as a standout player. Wilson needs to show clear progression and establish himself as the unquestioned top inside linebacker; otherwise, the Steelers could begin exploring other options.
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