Mandatory minicamp was held last week for the Pittsburgh Steelers, and it marks another step closer to the start of the season.
We are getting closer to training camp with each passing day. The hot summer will only intensify as players try their best to gain positioning on the Steelers roster. Trying to gain snaps, starting jobs, or even just making the roster itself will be up for grabs. This is where many across the NFL make their money as they battle in camp.
Minicamp serves as a precursor to the upcoming challenges, offering players a glimpse of what lies ahead. With a brief break from team activities until training camp begins on July 24th, this period allows them time to recharge. For those who excelled during minicamp, they aim to sustain their performance. Conversely, those who faced difficulties may encounter hurdles in securing a spot on the final roster.
Pittsburgh could look to move their starting left tackle this preseason
Trying to not make Steelers nation too excited to start, but Dan Moore Jr. could be on the outs sooner rather than later.
The long-time starting left tackle for Pittsburgh has been under scrutiny by many since gaining the job. It all boiled over last season as he kept Broderick Jones from starting on the left side. With Troy Fautanu in the fold, it might finally be time for Moore to move on. We will see how training camp plays out, but Moore will probably lose his starting job at some point this season.
It is unlikely that Moore would be cut, but he could have a strong market on the trade block.
It is time for this linebacker to finally produce for the Steelers
There are a couple of players heading out of mini camp that need to show up in a big way once and for all.
Look no further than Mark Robinson when it comes to players who need to prove themselves. He is still new to the position after transitioning to linebacker from running back in college. This is his third season in the NFL, and his inexperience excuse is starting to run dry. He needs to prove himself and earn his way onto the roster.
It could be different this time around as tons of talent covers the middle linebacker depth chart. If Cole Holcomb returns sooner than expected, then Robinson could struggle to find a roster spot. He needs to have a monster preseason. If he cannot take that next step this season, then he could find himself out of a job.
A crowded receiving room might push some on the chopping block
Crowded is an understatement when describing the receiver room for the Steelers heading into training camp. There are a ton of potential starting options on the team, but they lack quality players at the position for the most part. It could leave someone off the list like Quez Watkins when final roster cuts are announced. He is an experienced receiver, but there are other options.
With the emergence of Calvin Austin III in mini camp, it could sink any chance Watkins had to make the team.
It is overdue for a young defensive lineman to show up for the Steelers
With Cam Heyward’s future still in question, one of the younger defensive linemen has to step up to the plate. Keeanu Benton should have a big season, but someone else should step up too. DeMarvin Leal is a player who needs to have a big preseason. He is coming off a terrible sophomore year after having a promising rookie campaign.
Maybe he just isn’t a fit with the Steelers, but Leal needs to finally break through, or he could be out of Pittsburgh.
The black and gold could find help at center elsewhere after minicamp
Perhaps the biggest shocker on this list is none other than Nate Herbig.
He was the sole center option on the team until the Steelers drafted Zach Frazier in the second round of the NFL Draft. This move once again placed Herbig in a challenging position, although he has previously excelled in providing valuable depth for the team. Despite his proven abilities, his high salary cap figure means Pittsburgh might consider trading him if they acquire a costly asset before the season starts. While Herbig could continue with the Steelers, there remains the possibility of him being traded or unexpectedly cut following minicamp.
