You may not have heard the name, but Pittsburgh Steelers tight end, Rodney Williams currently sits on the team's practice squad. He's the lone TE on the practice squad, so he logically stands as the team's fourth option at the position, behind the three on the active roster. In the midst of the Week 5 loss to the Buffalo Bills, starter Pat Freiermuth suffered a head injury.
Credit: Jordan Schofield/SteelerNation (JSKO_PHOTO Twitter)
Now, Freiermuth is in concussion protocol and is doubtful for Week 6 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. It's his third concussion in just two NFL seasons now, so the team may take things slowly with Freiermuth. Additionally, the team's top backup, Zach Gentry, is dealing with an ongoing knee injury. Practice availability will determine where he's at for this weekend, but he's not a lock to play either.
In essence, Williams may be called up to the active roster for Week 6. Previously a wide receiver in college, Williams has spent time with the Denver Broncos in his time in the NFL. If he is called upon, he feels that he is ready to perform in what would be his NFL debut according to Brian Batko of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Steelers practice squad TE Rodney Williams said it was great to see Pat Freiermuth "healthy and moving around" today, but with Zach Gentry banged up too, Williams feels ready if his number's called. He converted from WR two years ago at UT-Martin, added 30 pounds, weighs 240 now.
— Brian Batko (@BrianBatko) October 12, 2022
On a positive note, Freiermuth was seen moving around and working out during practice on Wednesday as Williams mentioned in Batko's tweet. Josh Rowntree of 93.7 The Fan provided a video of the tight end in action. That doesn't exactly mean he will play on Sunday, but it's a good sign that he is doing well and trending in the right direction.
Credit: Jordan Schofield/SteelerNation (JSKO_PHOTO Twitter)
Behind the top two guys, rookie Connor Heyward will likely see extended action on Sunday. That's even if the top two play, as it would be the perfect opportunity for him to excel. The rookie impressed throughout training camp in Latrobe and into the preseason. He beat out veterans Jace Sternberger and Kevin Rader for the third tight end spot on the active roster.
What should the team do if Gentry and/or Freiermuth can't go on Sunday? Should they bring back Sternberger or Rader? Would you be confident in Williams filling in for a game? Share your thoughts in the comment section below, as well as on our social media sites!
#SteelerNation
