3 Steelers Positional Battles That May Be Decided Before Training Camp
As news continues to trickle in from OTAs, the clock continues to tick closer and closer to training camp. However, not every player on the current roster is guaranteed to even survive that long.
The Steelers have cap space at their disposal and are unlikely to sit on their hands and do nothing until the season begins. I fully anticipate a splash signing or trade at wide receiver and/or cornerback, despite rumors of a potential trade drying down over the past couple weeks. Minor additions and cuts will be made continuously throughout the offseason, but things are setting up wonderfully for Omar Khan to make yet another genius move.
If a major signing at one, or more, positions happens before training camp, there are several players in positional battles who need to prove their worth. The loser of these battles may not even be on the roster by the time we get to late July. Here are three positional battles that may be called before training camp begins.
NT2: Breiden Fehoko vs. Jonathan Marshall
The addition of Logan Lee has added yet another body to the mix along the defensive line, but he could very well be destined for the practice squad. One battle I believe could be over by the time we get to training camp is at nose tackle, where only one of Fehoko and Marshall are likely to have a chance at making the roster. Fehoko is the more consistent run defender of the two, but Marshall provides a little more size and better push as it pertains to interior penetration. Marshall saw the field for a limited amount of time last season and looked good, which is why I believe he should have the upper hand in this battle. Fehoko was hyped last offseason, but we have yet to see anything from him.
Wilbar’s Winner: Jonathan Marshall
ILB5: Kyron Johnson vs. Mark Robinson
Johnson is an athletic, but undersized, linebacker who provides an entirely different skill set than what Mark Robinson brings to the table. In limited snaps down the stretch, I honestly liked what I saw from Robinson. He is not a guy you want in coverage too often, but as a run defender and blitzer, he has definitely proven his value. Johnson is not as stout against the run, but he is much more fluid and natural in coverage than Robinson. The reason I still give the edge to Robinson is based more on experience and knowledge of the system. I like Johnson’s upside, but Robinson’s instincts against the run provide more value for the Steelers than Johnson’s coverage ability in the event a starter goes down with injury and one of them has to play meaningful snaps.
Wilbar’s Winner: Mark Robinson
OL9: Joey Fisher vs. Spencer Anderson vs. Dylan Cook
The top eight spots at offensive line are pretty straightforward: Broderick Jones, James Daniels, Zach Frazier, Isaac Seumalo, Troy Fautanu, Dan Moore, Jr., Nate Herbig, and Mason McCormick. The reason I believe Anderson will struggle to make this roster is because of the incredible depth the Steelers have already accumulated along the interior. Fisher is my favorite to win this battle because he can play along the interior but is most experienced at tackle. His athleticism provides the most intrigue as a depth lineman.
Wilbar’s Winner: Joey Fisher
Which position battles do you think could be decided by training camp? Be sure to share your thoughts on this and all things Pittsburgh Steelers in the comment section below!
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