Steelers Depth Chart 2023: Analysis & Projections

Hey Steelers fans! Let's dive deep into the Pittsburgh Steelers' depth chart for 2023. Understanding the team's composition is super crucial as we gear up for the new season. We'll break down each position, analyze key players, and even make some projections. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just getting into football, this guide will give you a solid understanding of where the Steelers stand.

Quarterbacks

The quarterback position is arguably the most important on the field, and the Steelers have a few options to consider. Kenny Pickett, entering his second year, is expected to be the starter. After a promising but at times inconsistent rookie season, the Steelers are hoping he'll take a significant leap forward. His development will be key to the Steelers' success this year.

Behind Pickett, the Steelers have veteran Mitch Trubisky. Trubisky provides valuable experience and a reliable backup option. He's shown flashes of potential in the past, and his presence gives the Steelers some security should Pickett struggle or get injured. Having a seasoned player like Trubisky can also be a great asset in the quarterback room, offering mentorship and guidance to the younger Pickett.

Mason Rudolph rounds out the quarterback depth chart. Rudolph has been with the Steelers for several years, serving as a backup and spot starter. He knows the system well and provides additional depth. While he may not have the upside of Pickett or the experience of Trubisky, Rudolph is a capable player who can step in if needed. The Steelers' quarterback situation appears stable, with a mix of youth, experience, and familiarity.

Running Backs

Najee Harris is the undisputed workhorse in the Steelers' backfield. Coming off a strong rookie season, Harris is expected to carry a significant load once again. His combination of power, agility, and receiving ability makes him a versatile weapon for the Steelers' offense. The team will likely rely heavily on Harris to establish the running game and take pressure off the quarterback. His durability will also be crucial, as the Steelers need him to stay healthy throughout the season.

Jaylen Warren is the primary backup to Harris. Warren impressed in his limited opportunities last season, showcasing his speed and explosiveness. He provides a change-of-pace option for the Steelers' offense and could see an increased role this year. Warren's ability to catch passes out of the backfield also adds another dimension to the Steelers' attack. He's a valuable asset who can contribute in various ways.

Anthony McFarland Jr. provides additional depth at the running back position. McFarland has struggled to find consistent playing time since being drafted, but he possesses intriguing speed and potential. He'll need to show significant improvement in training camp to earn a spot on the active roster. McFarland's speed could make him a valuable asset on special teams as well. The Steelers have a solid group of running backs, led by the dependable Harris and the promising Warren.

Wide Receivers

The Steelers' wide receiver corps is led by Diontae Johnson, the team's top target. Johnson is a precise route runner with reliable hands, making him a favorite of the quarterbacks. He's consistently produced solid numbers and is expected to be the focal point of the Steelers' passing attack once again. Johnson's ability to create separation and make tough catches will be crucial for the Steelers' offense.

George Pickens, a rookie sensation last year, is poised for a breakout season. Pickens has exceptional size, speed, and athleticism, making him a dangerous weapon downfield. He quickly developed a rapport with Pickett and is expected to be a major contributor this year. Pickens' ability to make contested catches and stretch the field adds a new dimension to the Steelers' passing game. Fans are eagerly anticipating his continued development.

Allen Robinson II was acquired in the offseason to provide a veteran presence and reliable target. Robinson has a proven track record of success and brings a wealth of experience to the Steelers' receiving corps. He's a versatile receiver who can play both inside and outside, giving the Steelers flexibility in their offensive formations. Robinson's addition should help take some pressure off Johnson and Pickens.

Calvin Austin III is a speedy receiver who missed his entire rookie season due to injury. Austin is expected to compete for playing time in the slot and could provide a boost to the Steelers' return game. His speed and agility make him a difficult matchup for opposing defenses. Austin's return adds another layer of excitement to the Steelers' receiving corps. The Steelers have a talented and diverse group of wide receivers, with a mix of proven veterans and exciting young players.

Tight Ends

Pat Freiermuth has established himself as a reliable target in the Steelers' passing game. Freiermuth is a skilled route runner with soft hands, making him a favorite of the quarterbacks. He's also a capable blocker, which adds to his value in the Steelers' offense. Freiermuth is expected to play a significant role once again this year.

Darnell Washington, a rookie draft pick, brings exceptional size and blocking ability to the tight end position. Washington is a physical player who excels at run blocking and pass protection. He's also a capable receiver, although his receiving skills are still developing. Washington's presence should improve the Steelers' running game and provide valuable protection for the quarterback.

Connor Heyward provides versatility and depth at the tight end position. Heyward is a jack-of-all-trades player who can contribute in various roles, including tight end, fullback, and special teams. He's a valuable asset to the Steelers' offense and special teams units. The Steelers have a solid group of tight ends, with a mix of receiving ability, blocking prowess, and versatility.

Offensive Line

The offensive line is an area of focus for the Steelers this year, as they look to improve their run blocking and pass protection. Dan Moore Jr. is projected to start at left tackle. The Steelers are hoping he'll continue to develop and improve his consistency.

Kevin Dotson is expected to start at left guard. Dotson has shown flashes of potential but needs to stay healthy and play more consistently. His run-blocking ability is a key asset.

Mason Cole is the starting center. Cole provides stability and experience to the offensive line. His communication and leadership skills are valuable assets.

James Daniels is slated to start at right guard. Daniels was a free-agent acquisition and is expected to be a significant upgrade to the offensive line. His pass-blocking skills are particularly valuable.

Chukwuma Okorafor is projected to start at right tackle. Okorafor has been a consistent presence on the offensive line and is expected to continue his role this year. The Steelers are hoping the offensive line will improve as a unit, providing better protection for the quarterback and opening up holes for the running game. Improving the offensive line is crucial for the Steelers' offensive success.

Defensive Line

The Steelers' defensive line is led by Cameron Heyward, one of the best defensive players in the league. Heyward is a dominant force against both the run and the pass. His leadership and playmaking ability are invaluable to the Steelers' defense. He's a perennial Pro Bowler and is expected to continue his high level of play.

Larry Ogunjobi is projected to start alongside Heyward on the defensive line. Ogunjobi provides a disruptive presence and is capable of generating pressure on the quarterback. His ability to penetrate the offensive line is a valuable asset. The Steelers are hoping he'll have a strong season.

Montravius Adams provides depth and experience on the defensive line. Adams is a solid run defender and can also contribute as a pass rusher. He's a valuable rotational player who can step in when needed. The Steelers have a strong and deep defensive line, capable of causing problems for opposing offenses.

Linebackers

T.J. Watt is the star of the Steelers' linebacker corps and one of the best pass rushers in the NFL. Watt is a disruptive force who consistently generates pressure on the quarterback. His ability to strip the ball and create turnovers is a major asset to the Steelers' defense. He's a perennial Defensive Player of the Year candidate.

Alex Highsmith has emerged as a solid pass rusher in his own right. Highsmith complements Watt well and provides a consistent presence on the edge. His ability to set the edge against the run is also valuable. The Steelers are hoping he'll continue to develop and improve.

Cole Holcomb was acquired in the offseason to bolster the inside linebacker position. Holcomb is a tackling machine who provides a physical presence in the middle of the defense. His ability to cover running backs and tight ends is also valuable.

Elandon Roberts is another offseason acquisition who is expected to contribute at inside linebacker. Roberts is a hard-hitting player who excels against the run. His physicality and toughness are valuable assets. The Steelers have a talented and diverse group of linebackers, capable of making plays in all phases of the game.

Cornerbacks

Patrick Peterson was signed in the offseason to bring veteran experience and leadership to the cornerback position. Peterson is a seasoned player with a proven track record of success. His ability to cover top receivers and make plays on the ball is invaluable.

Levi Wallace is projected to start alongside Peterson at cornerback. Wallace is a solid and dependable player who provides consistency to the Steelers' secondary. His ability to tackle and support the run is also valuable. The Steelers are hoping he'll continue to improve.

Joey Porter Jr., a rookie draft pick, is expected to compete for playing time at cornerback. Porter has exceptional size and athleticism, making him a promising prospect. His development will be key to the Steelers' future at the cornerback position. The Steelers have a mix of veteran experience and young talent at cornerback.

Safeties

Minkah Fitzpatrick is the star of the Steelers' secondary and one of the best safeties in the NFL. Fitzpatrick is a versatile player who can excel in coverage, run support, and as a blitzer. His ability to create turnovers is a major asset to the Steelers' defense. He's a perennial Pro Bowler.

Damontae Kazee is projected to start alongside Fitzpatrick at safety. Kazee is a ball-hawking player who has a knack for creating turnovers. His ability to cover ground and make plays on the ball is valuable. The Steelers are hoping he'll have a strong season.

Keanu Neal provides depth and experience at the safety position. Neal is a hard-hitting player who excels in run support. His physicality and toughness are valuable assets. The Steelers have a strong and versatile group of safeties, capable of making plays in all phases of the game.

Special Teams

Chris Boswell is the Steelers' reliable kicker. Boswell has been consistent throughout his career and is a valuable asset to the team.

Pressley Harvin III is the Steelers' punter. Harvin has a strong leg and is capable of booming punts. His ability to flip the field is valuable.

The Steelers' special teams unit is a crucial part of the team and is expected to perform well this year. We hope you found this in-depth look at the Steelers' depth chart helpful. Keep checking back for more updates and analysis throughout the season! Go Steelers!