After the sweeping moves the Pittsburgh Steelers made in free agency, it is easy to see how their roster is coming together. While they could still add a few more free agents before or after the NFL Draft, the bulk of their major acquisitions appear to be complete. It was a busy free agency period for the Steelers, as they addressed most of their glaring needs, though a few vacancies remain.
Expect the Steelers to target quality prospects in the upcoming NFL Draft to fill many of those remaining gaps.
Aaron Rodgers will likely be re-signed at some point during free agency, although the timing remains uncertain. The expectation is that he will lead the team at quarterback, while other roster needs are addressed through the draft process. As a result, the 53-man roster could look significantly different from the team that closed out the 2025 season in January.
Pittsburgh Steelers 53-man roster projection after free agency brings plenty of changes
Quarterback (3): Aaron Rodgers, Will Howard, Garrett Nussmeier
Do not be surprised if Rodgers is brought back, but a major question heading into the draft is whether the Steelers select a developmental quarterback.
If that happens, Mason Rudolph would likely lose his spot on the 53-man roster. In this scenario, Garrett Nussmeier could be selected in the middle rounds to complete the quarterback group. The team should take advantage of Rodgers and his willingness to mentor young signal callers.
Running back (3): Jaylen Warren, Rico Dowdle, Kaleb Johnson
This group appears largely set after the signing of Rico Dowdle in free agency. The role of Kaleb Johnson remains unclear and could become even more uncertain if the Steelers surprise many by selecting a running back in the draft. While that scenario seems unlikely, having 12 picks gives them the flexibility to make it possible. Jaylen Warren should form a strong tandem with Dowdle.
Travis Homer could push to make the team as a core special teamer, but Johnson's potential on offense earns him the third spot.
Wide receiver (6): DK Metcalf, Michael Pittman Jr., Omar Cooper Jr., Roman Wilson, Ben Skowronek, Kendrick Law
The Steelers’ receiver group has been revamped, and in this 53‑man roster projection, they select Omar Cooper Jr. in the first round. It would not be surprising to see them target a playmaker in the opening round, whether it is Cooper or another prospect. They also add Kendrick Law to provide additional depth. Overall, this is a significantly improved receiver group compared to last season.
Tight end (3): Pat Freiermuth, Darnell Washington, Khalil Dinkins
After cutting Jonnu Smith, the Steelers will need to address the tight end position at some point through the draft or free agency. In this projection, they select Khalil Dinkins in the later rounds to provide reliable depth and contribute as a willing blocker. Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington should form a dynamic tandem at the top of the depth chart.
Offensive line (9): Broderick Jones, Keylan Rutledge, Zach Fraizer, Mason McCormick, Troy Fautanu, Spencer Anderson, Brock Hoffman, Dylan Cook, Markel Bell
If Broderick Jones can stay healthy, this would be an excellent group for the Steelers moving forward. It may even surpass last season’s unit, which already showed meaningful signs of improvement. In this scenario, they selected Keylan Rutledge and Markel Bell in the draft and added ample depth through free agency.
Overall, this is a group that can continue to grow and build on the positive momentum established last season.
Defensive line (7): Cam Heyward, Derrick Harmon, Keeanu Benton, Yahya Black, Sebastian Joseph-Day, James Thompson Jr., Esezi Etomewo
Aside from the possibility of adding a late‑round defensive tackle such as James Thompson Jr., the Steelers are unlikely to prioritize the defensive line in the draft. Even so, this unit remains solid and features meaningful depth after the signing of Sebastian Joseph‑Day in free agency. Pittsburgh would be comfortable with this 53‑man roster, as it effectively blends experience with youth.
EDGE (4): T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, Nick Herbig, Jack Sawyer
This position group appears set for now, barring an unexpected trade that surprises Steelers Nation. T.J. Watt needs to perform at a higher level this season, as any decline would be concerning. Alex Highsmith remains a borderline star defender, while Nick Herbig and Jack Sawyer must continue to excel in limited roles. These are likely the Steelers’ edge rushers once again this season.
Inside linebacker (5): Patrick Queen, Payton Wilson, Jacob Rodriguez, Cole Holcomb, Carson Bruener
With Patrick Queen being in trade talks this offseason, the Steelers will probably draft a linebacker early. Unless Harrison beats out Carson Bruener, his spot is up for grabs. Jacob Rodriguez is the pick here, and that will allow Queen and Payton Wilson to rotate with the rookie on defense.
Cornerback (5): Joey Porter Jr., Jamel Dean, Asante Samuel Jr., Tacario Davis, Brandin Echols
The Steelers made key additions at cornerback in free agency to stabilize the position. Expect Pittsburgh to draft one or two corners, which could further reshape the group. Tacario Davis profiles as a developmental player who can learn behind the starters. Brandin Echols provides strong depth, while Asante Samuel Jr. offers potential across the lineup. Overall, this is a solid cornerback group.
Safety (5): Jalen Ramsey, DeShon Elliott, Jaquan Brisker, Darnell Savage, Sebastian Castro
Determining Jalen Ramsey’s role will be the biggest question mark on defense, though his versatility adds value. DeShon Elliott and Jaquan Brisker are expected to start, with Ramsey lining up in the slot. Darnell Savage and Sebastian Castro provide depth at the position. The final roster spots will likely come down to which players can contribute on special teams.
Specialist (3): Chris Boswell (K), Ryan Eckley (P), Christian Kuntz (LS)
Despite signing Cameron Johnston in free agency, the Steelers should still consider drafting a punter to create competition for the 53‑man roster. In that situation, I would go with Michigan State's Ryan Eckley. Chris Boswell should be in line for a significant contract extension during training camp. Christian Kuntz remains a solid long snapper, but he showed some inconsistencies last season. As a result, Pittsburgh may want to bring in competition for the veteran.