Steelers Had A Tremendous Interview With Versatile Late-Round Sleeper

It’s no secret that the Pittsburgh Steelers will look much different in 2026 compared to the 2025 squad. The main reason is simple: Mike Tomlin is no longer at the helm. Instead, Mike McCarthy takes over at age 62. If McCarthy wants to energize the fan base early in his tenure, he knows the 2026 NFL Draft is his best opportunity to do so. With 12 picks at the disposal of McCarthy and General Manager Omar Khan, there’s a growing consensus that Pittsburgh can significantly reshape the roster and bring in an exciting wave of young talent to complement an already veteran-heavy defense.

While Steelers fans continue to wait on Aaron Rodgers to reveal whether he’ll play for the team, attention has shifted toward the draft. Most eyes are focused on the top prospects and headline names, but one under-the-radar player to watch is Cash Jones, a running back out of the University of Georgia. 

The ultimate team player, Jones started as a walk-on under Kirby Smart and eventually worked his way into meaningful playing time. Now, he’s looking to prove draft pundits wrong who believe he could go undrafted. The Steelers haven’t been shy about targeting versatile prospects leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft. That’s why it stood out when Jones revealed via Sports Illustrated that he had a strong meeting with several teams, including Pittsburgh.

"My meetings have been going well," Jones said. "I’m super excited about what the future has in store for me. You obviously never know where you’re going to end up. It’s hard to tell. I’m excited about the process. I’ve spoken with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Atlanta Falcons, Miami Dolphins, San Francisco 49ers, Tennessee Titans via virtual meetings. We’ve had some good conversations."

There’s a lot that Jones can contribute on special teams as well as on the offensive side of the football. 

He may not project as a traditional NFL running back, but he understands the value he brings to any team because of his versatility.

"Some teams are saying running back," Jones said while speaking about what position he will play in the NFL. "Others are saying wide receiver. I can be a versatile runner and pass catcher. I’m ready to play whatever role and do whatever it takes to help the team. I can help the offense on third down. I’ve heard some feedback about me playing slot receiver. I’ve definitely heard that I can play as a returner on special teams. I’ll be happy with whatever role I can play."

Steelers Could Get Creative With Georgia's Cash Jones

The slot receiver idea is particularly interesting for Pittsburgh, as they are in need of help in that role. They appear to be fairly set at running back with Jaylen Warren, Rico Dowdle, and Kaleb Johnson in the mix. However, the Steelers have shown interest in versatile players, and Jones fits that mold after proving himself as a reliable and adaptable contributor at a top program.

That versatility has certainly played a role in Pittsburgh’s interest in the under-the-radar prospect. While Jones is generally viewed as a late Day 3 option or even a priority undrafted free agent, teams like the Steelers are intrigued by what he could bring to an offense. The bigger value, however, may come on special teams, where his skill set could immediately make an impact.

Please feel free to share your Steelers takes and thoughts with me on X (@anthonyghalkias) and consider following for more Steelers-related content and discussion. I read and respond. 

#SteelerNation