The clock is ticking for five Pittsburgh Steelers who need to prove their worth before Thursday’s preseason finale against the Buffalo Bills. One more uneven night could decide their seasons. The team must trim to 53 players, and these names sit closest to the cut line.
The Quarterback Gamble
Will Howard is under the most pressure after throwing two interceptions in a 17-0 loss to the New York Jets. He completed 10 of 15 passes for 74 yards in his first start. Mike McCarthy rested Mason Rudolph that night, which left Howard and Drew Allar to handle the snaps. Behind the Steel Curtain notes that keeping four quarterbacks is rare, and McCarthy has never done it. Howard is currently first in line if the Steelers decide to move on from one of the young arms.
The offense as a whole struggled. The line looked shaky, and Howard failed to recognize defenders jumping his routes. That makes it hard to trust him as a reliable backup. Thursday against Buffalo is his last chance to change the picture.
Running Back and Receiver Woes
Kaleb Johnson saw his workload jump to 12 touches against the Jets, but his limited special teams usage remains a problem. He still needs to show he can contribute beyond pure running to stay ahead of Lew Nichols or Travis Homer. Rookie receiver Roman Wilson also remains on thin ice. He drifted too far upfield on the second interception thrown by Howard. If he cannot create separation and clean up those habits against the Bills, the team could look elsewhere for depth.
Broderick Jones faces his own uphill climb after allowing pressure and sacks against the Jets. He missed spring practices with a neck injury, and his play has been inconsistent. With Max Iheanachor dealing with his own issues, the Steelers may keep Jones for depth, but he must prove he is ready right away.
The Special Teams Dilemma
Kaden Wetjen is the most surprising name on the list. Insider Mark Kaboly told 93.7 The Fan that the fourth-round pick is “on the bubble.” Wetjen exploded in the opener with a 74-yard reception and solid kickoff returns. His second game against the Jets went poorly. He averaged just a few yards on returns and turned the ball over in the third quarter.
One explosive showing is not enough to lock down a roster spot. The Steelers need reliable special teams contributors, and a fumble hurts his case. Thursday night in Buffalo will go a long way toward deciding his future.
