Preseason is Over!
The Steelers wrapped up their preseason, finalized their 53 man roster (for now), and are now focused on Week One in Atlanta.
The third preseason game was a loss in Detroit. The score of course does not matter. But there were things to feel good about! The starting offense showed some life, the offensive line was better, and Pittsburgh left the game mostly healthy. Now, it was against backups, and could mean absolutely nothing. However, better to feel this way than the opposite.
On the quarterbacks, It was made clear after one drive that Russell Wilson is the team’s starter. He lead a touchdown drive which included a good throw to George Pickens on 3rd and 11, then sat the rest of the game. Mike Tomlin hasn’t officially named a starter, but he’s not tricking anyone. It is Russ. Fields made some good throws and lead a touchdown drive as well.
National media types keep trying to make the quarterbacks a story. I suppose that is what you do in August. But anyone who follows the Steelers, writes about them for a living, or anyone that has listened to Mike Tomlin talk at all this offseason knows it was Russell Wilson’s job. They called it a competition, but meant it very loosely. Unless Fields wowed throughout the preseason, or Wilson was seriously hurt, he wasn’t going to start Week 1. People need to just start paying attention.
The (initial) 53 roster was finalized today. There is a good chance it changes over the next day or two. With that in mind, a couple things to note: Thomas Graham Jr. was released. I guess Beanie Bishop is the starting slot corner for now. Dez Fitzpatrick was not kept in the wide receiver room. That leaves them with five at the position. I’d bet a lot of money a receiver is added in the next week either by trade or signing. Rookie safety Ryan Watts had a scary injury against the Lions and was put on season ending IR. Cole Holcomb has done nothing all offseason after his leg injury last season. He will start the season on reserve PUP - meaning he will miss at least the first four games.
We will get to previewing the Falcons game later, but in the meantime, a few things to look for while we wait:
Will any current Steeler get an extension?
What receiver will they sign?
Will they trade for a receiver?
Which two tackles start Week 1? (Assuming Troy Fautanu is healthy)
Thanks for reading. I’ll see yinz in the next one.