The Pittsburgh Steelers are nearing the time when they must perfect their final 53-man roster, which includes getting final looks at guys during the last week of the preseason. Just like the other 31 organizations across the league, Pittsburgh is dealing with many injuries that need to be addressed. This includes releasing players and adding players to injured reserve list, which in turn opens up some spots on the 90-man preseason roster.
Matt Freed / Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
General Manager Omar Khan speaks to the press at the Pittsburgh Steelers' UPMC Sports Complex in Pittsburgh, PA.
A big injury the Steelers have endured during the preseason came to center Nate Herbig, who is likely out for the entire 2024 season after suffering an injury to his rotator cuff. Defensive back Anthony Averett was also said to be injured, but not much clarity has been provided on the injury itself. Regardless, the team released Averett in a statement announced by the team.
We have placed G Nate Herbig on the Reserve/Injured List, signed LB Kyahva Tezino and DL Marcus Haynes, and released DB Anthony Averett. @BordasLawhttps://t.co/qzIa5D2rvx
— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) August 20, 2024
Averett is a veteran cornerback who made his way to Steelers training camp after trying out during rookie minicamp. He impressed during his tryout, and was given a spot on the 90-man roster. Herbig's injury ensures that rookie Zach Frazier will likely get the starting nod for the Steelers' season opener against the Atlanta Falcons.
Steelers.com
Steelers' Zach Frazier gets ready to snap the ball.
Frazier was on a path to win the starting job, even if Herbig hadn't suffered a devastating injury. Herbig had minimal experience at the center position, while Frazier was a four-year starter during his college days at West Virginia. He has impressed coaches early, and will hopefully begin his NFL career on the right foot down in Atlanta.
Steelers Add Depth On The Defensive Side Of The Ball
Pittsburgh also added some depth on the defensive side of the ball, signing linebacker Kyahva Tezino and defensive lineman Marcus Haynes. Tezino was with the San Francisco 49ers during the 2023 season, while Haynes has bounced around multiple practice squads since entering the league out of Old Dominion University. Neither player has significant NFL experience, and it can be assumed they weren't brought in with the intention of them making the final 53-man roster.
San Diego State Athletics
Steelers' Kyahva Tezino during his college days at San Diego State.
It is unlikely either of these new additions make the final roster, as they have been brought in so close to the end of the preseason. They were most likely signed to provide some competition to their respective position groups and their offensive counterparts. Regardless, the next week is extremely important to the Steelers, as they try to find the best 53 players to carry into the regular season.
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