Steelers Depth Chart 2023: Analysis & Projections

Hey Steelers fans! Let's dive deep into the Steelers Depth Chart 2023, analyzing what we can expect this season. With insights and projections, we'll break down each position and highlight key players to watch. Understanding the depth chart is crucial for every fan, whether you're tracking your fantasy team or just want to stay informed about your favorite team. So, let’s get started and explore what the Steelers have in store for us this year!

Quarterbacks

The quarterback position is always under the spotlight, and for the Steelers, it’s no different. Kenny Pickett is entering his second year as the presumed starter, and expectations are high. After a somewhat shaky start to his rookie season, Pickett showed signs of improvement and poise, especially in crucial moments. His development is paramount to the Steelers' success. The team needs him to take a significant leap forward in terms of decision-making, accuracy, and overall command of the offense. Throughout the off-season, the coaching staff has emphasized Pickett's need to become more consistent and to read defenses more effectively. Pickett has been working closely with his receivers to build better chemistry and timing, which should translate to more efficient drives and scoring opportunities.

Behind Pickett, the Steelers have Mitch Trubisky as the primary backup. Trubisky brings valuable experience to the quarterback room, having been a starter in the league before. His role is to provide a steady hand if Pickett were to miss time due to injury or poor performance. Trubisky's familiarity with offensive coordinator Matt Canada's system is a definite asset. He knows the playbook well and can step in without causing significant disruption to the offense. The Steelers also have Mason Rudolph in the mix, adding further depth. Rudolph's tenure with the Steelers provides another layer of experience. While he may not have the same upside as Pickett or the starting experience of Trubisky, Rudolph is a reliable option who knows the organization well. He can provide valuable insights in the film room and on the sidelines. Overall, the Steelers have a solid quarterback room with a blend of youth, experience, and familiarity, which should provide stability and competition throughout the season.

Running Backs

The running back situation for the Steelers in 2023 looks promising, with a blend of established talent and fresh potential. Najee Harris remains the bell cow of the Steelers' backfield. After being drafted in the first round, Harris has quickly become the focal point of the Steelers' rushing attack. His combination of power, agility, and receiving ability makes him a versatile threat. The team will likely continue to lean heavily on Harris to carry the load, both in terms of carries and pass-catching out of the backfield. However, the Steelers coaching staff has expressed a desire to manage his workload more effectively this season to keep him fresh and healthy throughout the year. This means we could see more opportunities for the other running backs on the roster.

Jaylen Warren is expected to play a significant role as the primary backup to Harris. Warren impressed coaches and fans alike with his explosive runs and toughness. He provides a change-of-pace option for the Steelers' offense. His ability to make defenders miss in the open field and his willingness to contribute on special teams makes him a valuable asset. The Steelers may use Warren in various situations, including passing downs and as a spark plug to ignite the running game. Behind Harris and Warren, the Steelers have depth options like Anthony McFarland Jr., who brings speed and potential to the position. McFarland has shown flashes of potential in the past, but he needs to stay healthy and consistent to carve out a role for himself. Special teams ace and reliable veteran Benny Snell is also on the roster, providing further depth and experience. Ultimately, the Steelers' running back group has a good mix of power, speed, and versatility, which should help them establish a strong running game and support the passing attack.

Wide Receivers

The wide receiver corps is an exciting group with a mix of established stars and emerging talents. Diontae Johnson is the established number one receiver. Known for his route-running skills and ability to create separation, Johnson is the go-to target for Kenny Pickett. He's expected to be heavily involved in the Steelers' passing game and will need to be a consistent threat for the offense to succeed. Johnson has been working on improving his contested-catch ability and reducing drops. This should make him an even more reliable target for Pickett. His ability to win one-on-one matchups and his knack for getting open in critical situations make him a key component of the Steelers' offense.

George Pickens is generating a lot of buzz as he enters his second season. Pickens, with his impressive size, speed, and athleticism, made several highlight-reel catches during his rookie year. He quickly became a fan favorite. The Steelers are expecting him to take a big step forward. Pickens is seen as a potential star. His ability to stretch the field and make acrobatic catches makes him a dangerous weapon. He complements Johnson well, giving the Steelers a dynamic duo at the wide receiver position. Allen Robinson II was acquired in the offseason to add veteran presence and reliability to the receiving corps. Robinson is known for his sure hands and ability to make tough catches in traffic. He provides a steady presence and can contribute as a possession receiver. His experience and knowledge of the game should be valuable assets, especially in critical third-down situations. With these three leading the way, the Steelers' wide receiver group has the potential to be one of the most productive in the league.

Tight Ends

The tight end position is crucial for both blocking and receiving. Pat Freiermuth is the undisputed number one tight end for the Steelers. Known for his reliable hands and ability to make tough catches in traffic, Freiermuth has quickly become one of Kenny Pickett's favorite targets. He's a valuable asset in the passing game. He also contributes as a blocker. The Steelers will likely use him extensively in both the short and intermediate passing game. Freiermuth's ability to find soft spots in the defense and his knack for making contested catches make him a reliable target in critical situations. His continued development is essential for the Steelers' offense to reach its full potential.

Behind Freiermuth, the Steelers have veteran Darnell Washington, who is known primarily for his blocking prowess. Washington provides a physical presence at the line of scrimmage and can help bolster the Steelers' running game. While he may not be as involved in the passing game as Freiermuth, Washington's blocking ability makes him a valuable asset, especially in short-yardage situations. Connor Heyward also adds versatility to the tight end position. Heyward is capable of playing multiple positions, including fullback and H-back. He provides flexibility and can contribute as both a blocker and receiver. Overall, the Steelers have a solid group of tight ends with a mix of receiving ability, blocking prowess, and versatility, which should help them be effective in various offensive schemes.

Offensive Line

The offensive line is an area of focus. The Steelers have invested resources in upgrading their offensive line. Left tackle Dan Moore Jr. is tasked with protecting Kenny Pickett’s blindside. Moore has shown steady improvement and is expected to continue developing into a reliable starter. The Steelers need him to be consistent in pass protection and effective in run blocking. At left guard, Isaac Seumalo was brought in to add stability and experience. Seumalo is a seasoned veteran known for his toughness and reliability. He should be a significant upgrade at the position. Center Mason Cole is the anchor of the offensive line. Cole provides leadership and communication. His ability to make calls and adjustments at the line of scrimmage is crucial. At right guard, James Daniels brings power and athleticism. Daniels is a key component of the Steelers' running game. He helps to create running lanes. Right tackle Chukwuma Okorafor is a consistent presence on the right side. Okorafor is known for his run blocking and pass protection. The Steelers are counting on him to continue to be a reliable starter. The Steelers also have depth pieces like Kendrick Green and Broderick Jones who can step in if needed. The success of the Steelers' offense hinges on the performance of the offensive line. The team has invested in upgrading the unit and expects them to provide better protection for Kenny Pickett and create more running lanes for Najee Harris.

Defensive Line

The defensive line is a crucial component of the Steelers' defense, known for its ability to generate pressure and disrupt opposing offenses. Cameron Heyward remains the anchor of the defensive line. Heyward is a perennial Pro Bowler. He continues to perform at a high level. His leadership and skill are vital to the Steelers' defense. Tyson Alualu also brings experience and run-stopping ability to the defensive line. Alualu is a key contributor against the run. Larry Ogunjobi adds pass-rushing prowess to the defensive line. Ogunjobi is expected to create pressure on opposing quarterbacks. The Steelers have depth options like DeMarvin Leal and Montravius Adams to provide support and keep the starters fresh. The defensive line's ability to control the line of scrimmage and get after the quarterback will be critical to the Steelers' defensive success. The Steelers' defensive line is known for its physicality and relentless pursuit of the quarterback. The team relies on its defensive line to set the tone for the entire defense.

Linebackers

The linebacker corps is a vital part of the Steelers' defense, responsible for stopping the run, rushing the passer, and covering receivers. T.J. Watt is the star of the Steelers' defense, known for his exceptional pass-rushing abilities and disruptive presence. Watt is a game-changer. Alex Highsmith has emerged as a reliable pass rusher. Highsmith complements Watt on the other side. Inside linebacker Cole Holcomb was signed to bolster the run defense. Holcomb brings experience and tackling ability. Elandon Roberts adds physicality and leadership to the linebacker group. Roberts is known for his hard-hitting style. The Steelers also have depth options like Kwon Alexander and Mark Robinson to provide support and versatility. The linebacker's ability to make plays and disrupt opposing offenses will be crucial to the Steelers' defensive success. The Steelers' linebacker corps is known for its tenacity and ability to make game-changing plays. The team relies on its linebackers to be the heart and soul of the defense.

Cornerbacks

The cornerback position is critical in today's pass-heavy NFL, and the Steelers have made moves to improve their secondary. Patrick Peterson was signed to bring veteran leadership and experience to the cornerback group. Peterson is a seasoned pro. Levi Wallace is a reliable starter. Wallace is known for his consistency. Joey Porter Jr. was drafted to add youth and potential to the cornerback position. Porter Jr. is expected to develop into a key contributor. The Steelers also have depth options like James Pierre and Chandon Sullivan to provide support and competition. The cornerback's ability to cover receivers and make plays on the ball will be crucial to the Steelers' defensive success. The Steelers' cornerback group has a mix of experience and youth. The team is looking for its cornerbacks to step up and make a difference in the passing game.

Safeties

The safety position is vital for providing support in both the passing and running game. Minkah Fitzpatrick is the star of the Steelers' secondary. Fitzpatrick is known for his playmaking ability and versatility. Damontae Kazee provides a physical presence and adds depth to the safety position. Kazee is a reliable tackler. Keanu Neal brings experience and versatility to the safety group. Neal can play multiple positions. The Steelers also have depth options like Miles Killebrew to provide support and special teams contributions. The safety's ability to make plays and provide support in both the passing and running game will be crucial to the Steelers' defensive success. The Steelers' safety group is known for its versatility and ability to make game-changing plays. The team relies on its safeties to be the last line of defense.

Special Teams

Special teams are often overlooked, but they can be a crucial factor in determining the outcome of games. Chris Boswell is the Steelers' reliable kicker. Boswell is known for his accuracy and consistency. Pressley Harvin III handles the punting duties. Harvin III is working to improve his consistency. Christian Kuntz is the long snapper. Kuntz provides stability on special teams. The Steelers also have return specialists like Gunner Olszewski and Anthony McFarland Jr., who are responsible for creating explosive plays in the return game. The special teams' ability to execute and make plays can often be the difference between winning and losing. The Steelers place a high value on special teams. They look for their special teams units to be a weapon.

Final Thoughts

The Steelers Depth Chart 2023 looks promising with a blend of veteran leadership and young talent. The development of key players like Kenny Pickett and George Pickens will be crucial to the team's success. The offensive line needs to provide better protection. The defense needs to continue to generate pressure and make plays. With a strong coaching staff and a talented roster, the Steelers are poised to make a run in the competitive AFC North. Stay tuned for more updates and analysis throughout the season. Thanks for reading!