Winners and losers from the first week of Steelers training camp

Some players are already thriving while others are squandering early opportunities.
Derrick Harmon DT Pittsburgh Steelers. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images
Derrick Harmon DT Pittsburgh Steelers. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images | Barry Reeger-Imagn Images

The first week of training camp has had a negative impact on some players, while others have seen their stock rise. There is a lot of time left in the preseason process to win and lose jobs, but the Pittsburgh Steelers have some players circled. Some have been disappointments, while others are magnificent surprises.

It's been a mixed bag of results for several players across the Steelers' depth chart.

The first week of competition at training camp has passed, bringing a handful of storylines. After a slow start to camp, Pittsburgh's offense began to click. It will take time for this roster to develop into a cohesive team after all the moves made this offseason. A handful of new veteran starters won't land on the same page on day one, and that is ok.

For the most part, it's been a strong start to camp for the defensive unit. The offense has been sorting through growing pains and some inconsistencies. The offensive line must accomplish a lot of growth between now and the conclusion of the preseason, or things could get ugly. Training camp is the time to sort through struggles, but Pittsburgh better pray for fixes along the way.

The Pittsburgh Steelers have to rework their depth chart after Week 1 of training camp

Loser: Broderick Jones, OT

No one has been a bigger failure at the beginning of training camp than Broderick Jones. Insider Mark Kaboly believes the offensive tackle is considerably lighter going into the preseason process. That is a massive red flag for the perceived starting left tackle for the Steelers. This is a make-or-break campaign for Jones, and all signs are pointing to him being nothing more than a bust.

Winner: The entire rookie class

Most signs coming out of training camp have been positive for the entire rookie draft class.

Pittsburgh got strong reviews for its rookie group this year, and it seems to be paying off. Derrick Harmon has looked dominant at times, and Kaleb Johnson is pushing for a starting role. Even late-round picks like Yahya Black and Will Howard have produced positive signs during the early goings of camp. From the top pick to the last, each rookie has produced a positive start to their careers.

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Loser: Beanie Bishop, CB

It's not all Beanie Bishop's fault, but his momentum to have a significant role on defense is falling apart. Many thought he could still have a strong training camp and earn defensive snaps, but rookie cornerback Donte Kent is breathing down his neck. Bishop shouldn't be concerned about his spot on the roster yet, but things could change quickly if Kent jumps in front of him on the depth chart.

Winner: JJ Galbreath, TE

One of the most surprising starts to training camp has come from undrafted free agent JJ Galbreath.

The rookie tight end has plenty of challenges to overcome if he wants a shot at making the roster, but he's off to a fantastic start. He continues to produce touchdowns in practice and creates chances for himself. Expect Galbreath to get higher on the depth chart if he continues on his current path.

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