The NFL is finally back! The preseason starts tonight, and this guy is incredibly excited! The Hall of Fame game is typically a somewhat boring game to watch, but the signal it brings is a signal of joy, victory, and anticipation, because it signals the return of actual tackle football. It’s not the XFL, USFL, AAF, or any other organization. It’s the grand ol’ NFL!

The starters typically do not play in the Hall of Fame game, and I certainly expect that to be the case for both the Browns and Jets tonight. However, this provides a great opportunity for back-end-of-the-roster players to make an impression for the entire NFL to see. Many of the players playing tonight will be on new teams just one month from now, as roster cutdowns will doom many. Here are five players in tonight’s game that would be intriguing adds for the Steelers if they are indeed cut.

Anthony Schwartz | WR | Cleveland Browns

The Steelers may be rich at the wide receiver position, but in the NFL, things can change in a hurry. If, for any reason, a Steelers receiver gets injured in the preseason, Schwartz would make a lot of sense to bring in. His production has been limited through two NFL seasons, as he has been on the field for just over 400 offensive snaps in his career. With world-class speed and good work ethic, Schwartz would be worth a look if something unfortunate happens to the Steelers at the receiver position between now and then.

Maurice Hurst | DL | Cleveland Browns

Hurst has battled minor injuries throughout his career, but he has developed into a nice depth player. What held him back early in his career was when the 49ers and Raiders both aligned him as a 3-technique. Despite his lack of length, Hurst is a better fit in the role of a 5-technique, specifically when it comes to getting after the quarterback on passing downs. The biggest reason he could get cut is not scheme, however; it is the tremendous depth Cleveland currently has along the defensive line. With Dalvin Tomlinson, Jordan Elliott, Trysten Hill, Tommy Togai, and Siaki Ika all near-locks for the roster, there is not much room for a guy like Hurst. If he becomes available, the Steelers should look into his services.

Mohamoud Diabate | LB | Cleveland Browns

I thought about putting Tony Fields II on this list, but I simply do not see him getting cut after the tremendous job he did this past season, including the great reps he provided on special teams. Diabate, on the other hand, is a rookie whose lack of experience could prevent him from making the team. While the practice squad is the most likely spot for him, the Steelers should be on watch in the event an injury takes place during the preseason. Coverage linebacker is not as big of a concern following the signing of Kwon Alexander, but as a developmental depth piece, Diabate would certainly put the heat on a guy like Tanner Muse.

Jarrick Bernard-Converse | DB | New York Jets

Bernard-Converse is listed as a safety but primarily played cornerback in college. If you want a player that can pair tremendous athletic upside with a vast knowledge of the game, this is your guy. Here was his scouting report from the BTSC Big Board this past year.

Adam C: Bernard-Converse started as a true freshman for Oklahoma State, and after 4 years starting there, transferred to LSU and has a year starting in the SEC under his belt. This makes him one of the most experienced players in this year’s draft. He is a great athlete, with a 4.32 40 yd dash at his pro day, and a 42 inch vertical jump. He plays with good awareness and quick feet. Bernard-Converse tracks the ball well and has good ball skills, with solid hands for interceptions. Whilst having good straight line speed, he can struggle changing direction, doesn’t explode when breaking onto the ball, and is too handsy downfield for the NFL.

Javelin Guidry | CB | New York Jets

Between Chandon Sullivan, Damontae Kazee, and Patrick Peterson, I am sure the Steelers believe they have options to play the nickel cornerback position. While it may not be a desperate need on the team, I do believe the addition of a guy like Guidry could help. An excellent player on special teams, Guidry blends his top-end speed with a physical mindset. Guidry did not see much action with the Raiders in 2022, but in 2021 with the Jets, he was active the entire season, started 3 games, defended 3 passes, and racked up 48 total tackles. as a back-end-of-the-roster player, Guidry is a guy who can wear many hats.

Which players are you excited to see in the Hall of Fame Game tonight? Of the players who could be cut before the season, are there any you would like to see in black and gold? Be sure to share your thoughts on this and all things Pittsburgh Steelers in the comment section below!