Alright, so I was thinking about the Steelers and their preseason and how, honestly, it’s a total circus when it comes to players at the back end of the roster. Like, everyone’s talking about who might make it, offense or defense, but I’m here to tell you, it’s all about special teams. Seriously, that’s where the magic happens — or doesn’t.
Take this rookie, Roc Taylor, for instance. Got the size, sure, and he can do some flashy downfield runs, but let’s face it, he’s lost at the bottom of this depth chart. I mean, in an offense that’s mostly about running and tight ends? Not much playtime left for him. So, how’s he gonna nab one of those precious 53-man spots? Special teams, of course! Never really did much there before — but now he’s trying, practicing as a gunner and jammer. It’s wild to watch.
Then you’ve got CB D’Shawn Jamison. He’s got that energy in practice, a bit of an edge, but as a third-string slot corner? Please. Not doing much on D. So, yeah, his way in? Making those big plays on special teams. Running, hitting — anything to win over the coaches, Danny Smith and Teryl Austin. It’s do or die.
And Carson Bruener? Man, that guy’s got it tough. Inside linebacker room is packed, and he’s just waiting for someone to take a day off. Not that it happens often. Honestly, he needs special teams more than ever. He was killer on them back in Washington — now he needs to shine. It’s weird, camp doesn’t really set you up for it, ’cause how do you even practice without going full force? No clue.
Oh, and Jack Sawyer’s been tearing up camp! But when the real games start? He’s gonna be the fourth-string outside linebacker. Few defensive snaps, sure, but special teams? All day long. Going from always starting to doing the grunt work of the game? It’s a beast. He’s out there as a wing, blocking, the whole shebang. Tonight’s test is gonna be hardcore.
And let’s not forget the return game. Slots are open! Calvin Austin III’s the punt return guy, but Max Hurleman and Ke’Shawn Williams might just find a spot as backups on the practice squad. It’s all up for grabs.
So, look, you scroll through the back of the roster and see it all leads back to this — special teams are everything. Unless you’re on the offensive line. They’re just field goal protectors. Defensive line? Different story now that kicks are short. Some of them, athletic types like DeMarvin Leal and Isaiahh Loudermilk, get a shot.
Danny Smith, he’s not the big boss. He says it himself, but still, everyone knows special teams can make or break you. Impress here, and you’re way more likely to survive the big cut come Aug. 26. Simple as that.
