With the Pittsburgh Steelers preseason halfway over, we have had the pleasure to see both the good and concerning aspects of the 2021 Steelers roster. Whether it has been offseason free agent acquisitions, draft picks, or even returning players finding themselves in new starting roles, there has been plenty to like and plenty to see improvement in.
After defeating the Philadelphia Eagles last week courtesy of the performance of Dwayne Haskins and company, the Steelers will have a stadium open for capacity for the first time since December of 2019. It may only be preseason, but the excitement to be back in Heinz Field is pulsing across Steeler Nation. Tonight, we will see the entire first team offense available with Ben Roethlisberger expected to get some playing time to open the game.
Throughout the preseason, there have been plenty of position battles—some requiring outside help; such as the acquisition of Joe Schobert! Today, we will take a sneak peek of 3 position battles in game 3 of the 2021 preseason schedule as the Detroit Lions make the first of their two visits to Pittsburgh this season!
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1. Nickel Cornerback
Shakur Brown (29) lines up in the nickel cornerback position on defense for the Pittsburgh Steelers during training camp 2021. Photo | Twitter: @jsko_photo
Not only is the nickelback position being looked at, but a specific rotation could also be considered. With James Pierre’s impressive camp and preseason thus far, Cameron Sutton’s versatility certainly enables him to be kicked inside into the slot role. Arthur Maulet has been able to take advantage of playing time in lieu of Antoine Brooks' injury, however Brooks could return to action tonight.
If the current slew of guys can’t gain the full confidence of having a versatile, singular piece at nickel, the question then shifts to how they will use certain players in multiple down situations. Ideally, the coaching staff would like to have a consistent, versatile piece in the nickel role.
2. RB3
Jaylen Samuels (38) takes the handoff for the Pittsburgh Steelers in training camp 2021. Photo | Twitter: @jsko_photo
It’s a 3-man battle for this spot: Benny Snell, Jaylen Samuels, and Kalen Ballage all have two games left to show they are the man for the 3rd running back spot. Ballage showed a lot of flashes thus far this preseason and Samuels has had some flashes as well. Snell may be the odd man out as he has had very limited action due to injury.
There’s no doubt in anyone’s mind that Anthony McFarland and Najee Harris are very secured in their roles. However, the 3rd spot is crucial to whoever ultimately gets a spot on the 53-man roster. Why? Well, the next battle plays hand in hand with this…
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3. WR6 vs RB4
Rico Bussey (84) makes the catch for the Pittsburgh Steelers in training camp 2021. Photo | Twitter: @jsko_photo
Will the Steelers keep 4 running backs or will they lean more towards keeping 6 receivers? It likely won't be both based on past rosters. Or will they maybe keep more offensive linemen or linebackers than usual? There is no telling, but as the preseason winds down, these types of things will make a big, big difference.
If the Steelers keep catching fire at WR, would they risk losing that 6th receiver in cuts? Or what if one of the 3 running backs makes incredible strides? Or maybe the deep outside linebackers keep making plays? That’s a tough decision to make. 53-man cuts aren’t easy. The playmakers will have their final two opportunities to shine soon.
What positions did I miss or overlook? What battles are yinz looking forward to? Comment below!
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