3 Remarkable Steelers Players Whose Stock Is On The Rise After Preseason

The Pittsburgh Steelers recently solidified their 53-man roster for the 2023 season after the conclusion of training camp and the preseason. During that early action, there were a few players being seen for the first time by fans and analysts, whose stock is now on the rise as we wait for the start of the regular season. 

The Steelers showed steady improvement during the 2022 season and they seemed to build upon that during the 2023 preseason. While it is too early to start saying the upcoming season will be a 100% success, we won't know that until the regular season is underway. The signs are there, however. With them going 3-0 and quarterback Kenny Pickett displaying a perfect passer rating during his drives, the chemistry was there. It appears that new General Manager Omar Khan brought in the missing components they needed in all three phases.

Steelers Tight End Darnell Washington

The Steelers have three tight ends with Pat Freiermuth, Darnell Washington and Connor Heyward, who is a hybrid tight end/fullback. Washington got a lot of positive attention during the preseason, which made it easier for the team to cut Zach Gentry.   

Washington was selected in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft out of the University of Georgia. During his time at Georgia, he helped the Bulldogs win two College Football National Championships. Despite suffering an injury his sophomore year and having to play on the same team as the incredible Brock Bowers, Washington was able to get NFL scout's attention - in part because he has incredible size at 6'7" and 265 pounds. It is no surprise he scored high marks for strength and being able to move defenders at will. He displayed good blocking and catching technique. 

During the 2023 training camp and preseason, Washington started winning over many of his detractors. He showed that he is able to use his size to his advantage while blocking, which makes him a serious threat in the red zone. According to Bleacher Report, cutting Gentry in favor of Washington made sense and they expect him to cut into Freiermuth's action a bit as well. 

"Washington displayed flashes of talent during the team's three preseason games and training camp practices. He should make an immediate impact on third down and red zone situations."

Steelers Wide Receiver Calvin Austin III 

Calvin Austin III was a fourth-round selection during the 2022 NFL Draft out of the University of Memphis. He unfortunately suffered a foot injury prior to preseason games that cost him the season. Fans have been anxiously waiting to see what he can do after he ran a 4.32 at the NFL Combine. 

He definitely showed the fans and everyone else his lightning-fast speed and his return abilities in the 2023 preseason. It certainly appears his foot healed well as he ran his way into the fourth option at wide receiver. While Austin will have to keep working to earn himself a starting role on offense, he is the perfect complement to Diontae Johnson, George Pickens, and Allen Robinson. 

"The Memphis product showcased his blazing speed throughout preseason on routes in the passing game and on special teams. Austin has the potential to be a game-changing option either as a deep threat or return man and that has to excite the Steelers coaching staff," said Joe Tansey from Bleacher Report.

Joe Tansey even thinks that Austin might beat out Gunner Olszewski and Miles Boykin for the starting return man job on special teams. Austin definitely provides the depth that was missing in 2022. 

Steelers Defensive Back Elijah Riley

Elijah Riley is entering his fourth season in the NFL and his second with the Steelers. He was an undrafted free agent signed by the Philadelphia Eagles after playing for Army. He spent time on their practice squad as well as with the New York Jets. The Steelers claimed him off waivers in August of 2022 and placed him on the practice squad.  

He seems to have bullied his way onto the Steelers 53-man roster with a strong performance during the preseason according to Tansey. Riley wowed watchers with his athletic abilities and his positional flexibility. 

"The defensive back impressed with his coverage ability, versatility between cornerback and safety and on special teams. Riley can compete for snaps in the slot, and even on the outside when the starters are off the field."

Riley could see playing time during the regular season backing up Joey Porter Jr., Patrick Peterson and Minkah Fitzpatrick. The AFC North is a challenging division and Pittsburgh needs depth to have success against these powerful offenses. This is why they kept 10 defensive backs on the roster.  

What do you think about Bleacher Report's list? Do you agree that these three players all saw their stock rise? Click to comment below! 

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