Heading into Steelers preseason week 3, most of the roster is solidified. With stars scattered all around this team, it only leaves a few spots open for position battles. However, at slot corner, defensive line, inside linebacker, and backup o-line, there are players fighting for starting roles.
This battle is primarily between free agent signing Chandon Sullivan and the depth chart riser Elijah Riley. Other names like James Pierre and Duke Dawson had pushed for this spot in training camp, but it is now down to just these two.
As of now, Sullivan is listed as the starter on the depth chart, but it is very feasible that Riley could pass him this game. Riley has been one of the biggest risers throughout both camp and preseason after he only played in four games in 2022.
Both cornerbacks had interceptions in the second preseason game and have been impressive thus far. It will be a tight race for the starting position before week 1 hits. It is also worth noting that James Pierre will be playing to keep himself on the 53 man roster as he has been relatively bad recently.
The Steelers have clear starters on the interior of the defensive line with Cameron Heyward and Larry Ogunjobi, but after that, it’s a mess. The Steelers have six more players that likely deserve to be on NFL rosters.
Keeanu Benton, Isaiahh Loudermilk, Demarvin Leal, Montravius Adams, Armon Watts, and Breiden Fehoko will all battle for playing time. Benton should start week one, but he will likely rotate with others often.
Unfortunately, one or two of these players will presumably be cut from the final 53. The Steelers are incredibly deep at this position. They should have two entire defensive lines better than some teams in the league.
Another position the Steelers are deep at is inside linebacker. The organization brought in a haul of free agent linebackers. Cole Holcomb, Elandon Roberts, Tanner Muse, Nick Kwiatkowski and Kwon Alexander were all brought in. The only returning player from 2022 is seventh round pick Mark Robinson.
Cole Holcomb will clearly start. The rest of the linebackers will be rotating in depending on situation. Kwon Alexander is the key player to watch in this game. If he can continue performing at a high level he could secure a starting position.
On the other hand, Kwiatkowski and Muse are battling for the 5th roster spot. Both are solid players and would be great depth for the Steelers. The odds are that Muse will have the edge given his ability on special teams.
The player to watch is Kendrick Green. He has had significant time with the team, playing 15 games in 2021. However, he has looked terrible in both training camp and preseason. He will be playing for his spot on the roster
In addition to Green, fans should be paying attention to Spencer Anderson. Anderson was drafted in the 7th round this year and should develop into solid depth at all three interior positions. He slots right in where Green would be.
Steelers preseason week 3 kicks off tonight at 7:30. Although the starters won’t play much, tune in to see these important position battles.
Stay tuned for more exciting NFL content, including roster moves, in depth analysis, and more news from around the league.
Feature image courtesy of Steelers.com
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