The 2024 NFL season is expected to bring significant changes to the Pittsburgh Steelers’ roster, with a mix of veteran players, free agent signings, and rookie draft picks. As of now, here’s a projected depth chart for the Steelers, keeping in mind that the actual lineup may vary based on training camp performances, injuries, and other factors.
Offense:
Quarterbacks:
- Kenny Pickett - After a promising rookie season, Pickett is poised to lead the Steelers into the 2024 season, assuming he continues to develop and improve.
- Mason Rudolph - With experience as a backup, Rudolph provides stability and a veteran presence behind Pickett.
- Dorian Thompson-Robinson - A promising young quarterback who could compete for the backup role or develop as a long-term project.
Running Backs:
- Najee Harris - Entering his third season, Harris looks to build on his early success and become a more consistent threat in both the running and passing game.
- Jaylen Warren - After a solid rookie campaign, Warren is expected to see an increased role, possibly challenging for more playing time.
- Anthony McFarland Jr. - Will be competing for a spot on the roster, potentially as a specialty back or returner.
Wide Receivers:
- George Pickens - Pickens showed flashes of brilliance in his rookie season and is expected to be a key part of the Steelers’ passing attack.
- Diontae Johnson - A veteran presence, Johnson brings consistency and reliability to the receiving corps.
- Allen Robinson - Signed as a free agent, Robinson adds depth and experience, potentially serving as a third receiver or mentoring the younger players.
- Calvin Austin III - A speedster who could find a role on special teams or as a deep threat.
- Miles Boykin - Competing for a roster spot, possibly as a special teams contributor.
Tight Ends:
- Pat Freiermuth - After two solid seasons, Freiermuth is the clear starter, offering both receiving and blocking skills.
- Connor Heyward - Enters the season as the backup, with the potential to see more playing time in certain packages.
- Darnell Washington - A rookie addition who could challenge for the backup role or develop as a blocking tight end.
Offensive Line:
- Left Tackle: Dan Moore Jr. - Looks to solidify his position after a couple of seasons of growth.
- Left Guard: Kevin Dotson - Enters the season as the starter but could face competition from newcomers.
- Center: Mason Cole - Signed in free agency to stabilize the center position.
- Right Guard: James Daniels - Returns as a key component of the Steelers’ line.
- Right Tackle: Chukwuebuka Odhiambo - Competing for the starting role, potentially pushing for more playing time.
Defense:
Defensive Line:
- Defensive Ends:
- T.J. Watt - The cornerstone of the Steelers’ defense, Watt is expected to continue his dominance.
- Alex Highsmith - Showed significant growth and could form a formidable pass-rushing duo with Watt.
- DeMarvin Leal - Looks to build on his rookie season, potentially seeing more snaps.
- Defensive Tackles:
- Cameron Heyward - A veteran leader, Heyward provides both pass rush and run defense capabilities.
- Montravius Adams - Enters as a rotational player who could see increased time.
- Larry Ogunjobi - Signed to bolster the interior, Ogunjobi brings experience and depth.
- Defensive Ends:
Linebackers:
- Inside Linebackers:
- Myles Jack - Returns as a seasoned veteran, providing leadership.
- Mark Robinson - A young, promising linebacker who could see more action.
- E.J. Speed - Competing for a role, possibly on special teams.
- Outside Linebackers:
- T.J. Watt
- Alex Highsmith
- DeMarvin Leal (Could also play inside)
- Inside Linebackers:
Defensive Backs:
- Cornerbacks:
- Joe Haden - Though getting older, Haden remains a key figure in the secondary.
- Cameron Sutton - Expected to start, Sutton has grown into a reliable corner.
- Akhello Witherspoon - Competing for a starting role or significant playing time.
- Gunner Watson - A rookie who could find a role on special teams or as a developmental corner.
- Safeties:
- Minkah Fitzpatrick - One of the top safeties in the league, Fitzpatrick is a crucial component of the Steelers’ defense.
- Damontae Kazee - Signed to provide depth and potentially start, Kazee offers experience.
- Tre Norwood - Could see more playing time, especially in certain defensive schemes.
- Cornerbacks:
Special Teams:
- Kicker: Chris Boswell - Enters another season as the Steelers’ reliable kicker.
- Punter: Pressley Harvin III - Looks to improve after a rookie season with highs and lows.
- Returner: Steven Sims - Could retain his role as the primary return specialist, though competition is expected.
This depth chart reflects a mix of returning veterans, developing young players, and newcomers who could significantly impact the Steelers’ 2024 season. As with any NFL team, injuries, training camp performances, and preseason games will ultimately shape the final roster and starting lineups.
