The Pittsburgh Steelers will face off against the Seattle Seahawks on Saturday night in the first preseason game for both teams in 2022. A lot of people are bored by August games that don't matter, but the match-ups couldn't be more important for NFL teams and coaches. This is the perfect time to analyze strengths, weaknesses and depth on the team, but more importantly, the first action for recently drafted or signed non-drafted rookies. The Steelers have a few guys who have a legitimate shot to make their cases for moving into a more permanent role this season and beyond. It all starts with first round draft pick, Kenny Pickett.
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1.) Steelers QB Kenny Pickett
The rookie out of the University of Pittsburgh is currently listed third on the depth chart. That seems to be just a formality as he has progressed well in training camp and could see himself slowly move up on the totem pole throughout August. Mason Rudolph is probably not going to move up even though he has had a great camp and Mitch Trubisky is no All-Pro quarterback.
The Steelers are generally very good at evaluating talent and Pickett is the first signal-caller to be drafted in the first round by the organization since Ben Roethlisberger in 2004. He will be going up against the Seahawks third-team defense, but consistent and mistake-free play will lead to an increase in playing time in the second preseason match-up against the Jacksonville Jaguars next week. The rookie has no solidified franchise quarterback ahead of him and nothing is stopping him from earning that title if he performs.
2.) Steelers RB Jaylen Warren
Warren has nothing to lose. While he is currently fourth on the depth chart in the running backs room, Najee Harris is unlikely to play after tweaking his ankle and Benny Snell Jr. is nursing a knee injury. The undrafted rookie out of Oklahoma State has the opportunity of a lifetime to play several snaps and open some eyes as well. Other than Harris, no running back has cemented his role in the Steelers offense.
The Seahawks only allowed 3.8 yards per carry to opposing ball carriers in 2021, so regardless of what unit Warren is facing, putting up good numbers will certainly lead to more chances for him throughout the preseason. Mike Tomlin is not known for utilizing more than one running back during the regular season outside of the DeAngelo Williams days, but it might be necessary to protect the longevity of Harris. Warren is an underdog who could provide the same, or better services than Snell Jr. did last year. The depth chart is far from sorted out here.
3.) Steelers DL DeMarvin Leal
Fresh off of a season allowing an NFL-high 2,483 yards rushing, the Steelers went out and got help in the off-season. A healthy Tyson Alualu and Larry Ogunjobi will help up front, but development is key for the franchise and Leal has been impressive in camp thus far. He has dominated the offense line and generates a ton of pressure in the backfield. Leal has people in front of him and won't be a starter this year, barring any injuries, but has the chance to showcase his abilities against a different color jersey on Saturday.
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The rookie out of Texas A&M is another guy who can play his way into the rotation throughout the season and it begins during his first NFL game. The Steelers need to stop the run in order to turn a great defense into a nightmare for opponents. Leal is one of those players who is already a lock to make the roster and will receive a ton of playing time the next few weeks to showcase his talent.
George Pickens is the one rookie who seemingly is already expected to be a difference maker. He has more to lose rather than gain because of the two wide receivers in front of him and the guys behind him. He has nothing to worry about if he performs as he has in camp, but he needs to backup all that training camp trash talk.
What Steelers do you think have the most to gain against the Seahawks? Let us know in the comments below!
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