Steelers Have Unexpected Names Emerge In What Could Be A Final Roster Spot Battle

The Pittsburgh Steelers' first preseason game didn't unfold as fans had hoped, with the team being shut out in the first half by the Houston Texans. Despite a spirited effort in the second half, the Steelers' comeback fell short, resulting in a 20-12 loss. While it’s important to remember that it was just a preseason contest and not to overreact, the overall execution was sloppy, and the team didn’t look as sharp as expected.

As preseason continues, the battle to make the final 53-man roster intensifies. The Steelers have reason to be optimistic about their running back corps, led by Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren, both of whom are expected to have standout seasons under the guidance of Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith.

Behind Harris and Warren are Cordarrelle Patterson and La'Mical Perine. Patterson, known for his versatility as a wide receiver and return specialist, is also capable of playing running back. While he's unlikely to see significant carries, Smith may utilize him in the backfield at times during the 2024 season, adding a dynamic element to the offense.

Two other running backs, Jonathan Ward and Daijun Edwards, are also vying for a spot on the Steelers' roster. Both players delivered solid performances against the Texans, setting the stage for a competitive battle as they seek to secure their place on the team. Given that the Steelers are unlikely to carry six running backs into the regular season, Edwards and Ward could be in a tight race for the final roster spot. The upcoming preseason games will be critical for these players as they continue to prove their value to the team.

The battle for a spot on the Steelers' depth chart is heating up among Perine, Ward, and Edwards. In Friday’s preseason game, Perine had four carries for 10 yards, while Ward contributed six carries for 26 yards. However, it was Edwards who stole the spotlight with three carries for 28 yards and a touchdown, making the strongest case for himself.

Edwards is an especially intriguing prospect. He played a crucial role in Georgia’s back-to-back National Championships and proved his worth in what many consider the toughest conference in college football, the SEC. If you can be productive playing in that conference you have a good chance to make it in the NFL.

After going undrafted in the 2024 NFL Draft, Edwards quickly caught the Steelers’ attention and signed as an undrafted free agent on April 27, 2024. His impressive performance against the Texans undoubtedly turned heads among the Steelers' coaching staff, bolstering his chances of securing a roster spot.

Ward, a veteran journeyman, brings NFL experience to the table. Since entering the league as an undrafted free agent in 2020, Ward has had stints with the Arizona Cardinals and Tennessee Titans. 

Although he hasn't made a significant impact with those teams, he’s managed to stay on NFL rosters, showcasing enough skill to warrant opportunities. This offseason, he signed a one-year deal with the Steelers, looking to solidify his place on the team.

Steelers' Daijun Edwards Shined Against The Texans Gaining Momentum To Make The Roster

Perine, with his advantage on the depth chart, is likely to make the roster, but the real battle appears to be between Ward and Edwards. Edwards, a fresh face with potential, seems to have gained some momentum after his solid preseason performance on Friday night. 

Both players have impressed the coaching staff during offseason workouts, and Steelers fans should keep a close eye on them as they continue to fight for a roster spot. The next opportunity for these players to shine will come on Saturday, when the Steelers face the Buffalo Bills in their second preseason game.

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