The Pittsburgh Steelers have finalized their roster as they head into the 2025 NFL season, with a mix of seasoned veterans and promising rookies. Our team is excited to get the regular season started! First up, an AFC East clash against the New York Jets on September 7 in MetLife Stadium. As they prepare for this matchup, the Steelers are adjusting to several key injuries and evaluating their depth across various positions.
The Steelers’ lineup is headlined by a formidable front seven. It features longtime anchor Cameron Heyward, as well as Keeanu Benton, Derrick Harmon, Yahya Black, Logan Lee, Isaiahh Loudermilk, and Daniel Ekuale. Heyward, one of the league’s most disruptive players with a physical style of play, has long been a cornerstone of Pittsburgh’s defense. He still leads the way with his attacking style of play, just like his team does physically.
In the blink of an eye, the Steelers faced a major blow at the onset of training camp. Unfortunately, rookie first-round pick Derrick Harmon was carted off the field with a knee injury. The league’s number-three ranked defense quickly ruled him out for the year, leaving a huge hole in their plan to stuff the run. Harmon had been making strides in his performance and was expected to contribute greatly to the team’s success.
Beyond Harmon’s injury, Yahya Black has surprised in expanded roles, keying a dominant defense in camp. His performance has already turned some heads and earned him a larger role. Expect him to take on greater responsibilities as the season wears on. If the Steelers want to compete at a high level this season, they will need both depth and talent at their defensive line.
After an amusingly uneventful linebacker group, suddenly we have some actual talent. It includes T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, Nick Herbig, Jack Sawyer, Patrick Queen, Payton Wilson, Cole Holcomb, Malik Harrison and Mark Robinson. This gathering of creative talent, public and private, paired the wisdom of experience with the energy of youth. Watt and Highsmith should spearhead efforts to pressure ugly quarter often. At the same time, the younger linebackers are hungry for their shot to prove their worth in these key moments.
Offensively, the Steelers’ depth chart at QB would have Aaron Rodgers, Mason Rudolph and Will Howard. Rodgers’ experience will come in handy as he’ll be taking the reins of a team that is still discovering itself. Calvin Austin III’s abdominal injury adds a layer of questionable for his availability. These types of concerns open up huge questions about the team’s receiving corps. Austin was once penciled in as WR2, but missed most of camp with a foot injury.
If Austin is unable to go in Week 1 against the Jets, Robert Woods would likely be his replacement. He might only win a roster spot, though! Besides providing a crutch for their young quarterbacks, the Steelers will be looking for reliable options in their receiving game.
The depth chart at running back includes Jaylen Warren, Kaleb Johnson, and Kenneth Gainwell. This trio will aim to set the table for a powerful ground game while they help anchor an offensive attack featuring quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Even just their camp performances have been encouraging and might end up being crucial as the long season drags on.
The specialists unit is made up of Chris Boswell and Cameron Johnston, with Christian Kuntz as the long snapper. How dependable these specialists are will determine a lot of field position and scoring chances all season long.
Similar to their approach at slotback, the Steelers seem to have assembled a pretty strong contingent of cornerbacks. This big six has Darius Slay, Jalen Ramsey, Joey Porter Jr., Cory Trice Jr., James Pierre, and Brandin Echols. With so much talent at this spot, the Mountain View/Blazer coaching staff is looking to improve their pass D tremendously.
The offensive line features Broderick Jones, Troy Fautanu, Isaac Seumalo, Zach Frazier, Mason McCormick, Spencer Anderson, Ryan McCollum, Calvin Anderson, and Doug Nester. This unit will have one job to do and that’s to protect their QBs, making sure we don’t see that crazy stat of 38 RBs being signed. The chemistry, communication and poise from these guys will be crucial when they’re up against some of the future NFL defensive lines.
Cameron Heyward’s halftime assessment after a recent preseason game made a lot of Steelers fans and analysts worried. As things currently stand, he should arrive home and back to work without major issues. His health is paramount to preserving the Steelers’ intimidating, ball-hawking defense.
As the Steelers gear up for the upcoming season opener against the Jets, they remain focused on overcoming injuries and solidifying their game plan. Pittsburgh mixes experienced players with new young faces. Their eyes are clearly set on being highly competitive when the 2025 NFL season rolls around.
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