PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Steelers kick off their 2025 NFL season against the New York Jets on September 7 at MetLife Stadium. This year, there’s no debate about who the starting quarterback is: Aaron Rodgers is at the helm. However, a big question lingers about who’ll be catching his passes.
The Steelers have so far avoided bringing in new wide receivers during training camp, leading to tough choices ahead. Calvin Austin III, designated as the second wide receiver, has faced an abdominal injury and it’s unclear if he’ll be ready for the opener.
On the defensive side, the Steelers have a lot of cornerbacks to evaluate. Beanie Bishop Jr., who caught many eyes last training camp, might not make the final cut this year. They also faced some setbacks with the defensive line. Rookie Derrick Harmon had to leave practice with a knee injury, and veteran Dean Lowry is still recovering from an ACL tear.
Other players like Cory Trice Jr. and OL Calvin Anderson may also start the season on injured reserve.
The roster will be trimmed to 53 players shortly, and here’s an early look at how that might shape up:
Quarterbacks (3): Aaron Rodgers, Mason Rudolph, Will Howard.
Despite missing preseason action due to a finger injury, Howard is still likely to remain as the third QB, suggesting the Steelers might put him on injured reserve temporarily.
Running Backs (3): Jaylen Warren, Kaleb Johnson, Kenneth Gainwell.
Warren is the main back, while Johnson has been showing promise. Gainwell provides versatility, particularly on third downs.
Wide Receivers (5): DK Metcalf, Calvin Austin III, Roman Wilson, Scotty Miller, Ben Skowronek.
This group faces uncertainty. Austin’s injury might open up a spot for veteran Robert Woods. Wilson is developing well under Rodgers.
Tight Ends (4): Pat Freiermuth, Darnell Washington, Jonnu Smith, Connor Heyward.
Washington is particularly notable for his size, causing matchup issues for defenses. Heyward has impressed the coaching staff and seems set for a role.
Offensive Line (9): Broderick Jones, Troy Fautanu, Isaac Seumalo, Zach Frazier, Mason McCormick, Spencer Anderson, Ryan McCollum, Calvin Anderson, Doug Nester.
Injuries have created extra competition for backup spots.
Defensive Line (7): Cameron Heyward, Keeanu Benton, Derrick Harmon, Yahya Black, Logan Lee, Isaiahh Loudermilk, Daniel Ekuale.
The depth here was already in question, and Harmon’s injury adds to the worry.
Linebackers (9): T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, Nick Herbig, Jack Sawyer, Patrick Queen, Payton Wilson, Cole Holcomb, Malik Harrison, Mark Robinson.
Robinson gets the edge for his experience on special teams.
Cornerbacks (6): Darius Slay, Jalen Ramsey, Joey Porter Jr., Cory Trice Jr., James Pierre, Brandin Echols.
Bishop may not make the squad due to the crowded position, especially after Ramsey’s arrival.
Safeties (4): DeShon Elliott, Chuck Clark, Miles Killebrew, Juan Thornhill.
With the addition of Clark, the safety group has good depth.
Specialists (3): Chris Boswell, Cameron Johnston, Christian Kuntz.
Johnston seems to have the upper hand in punting, but Kuntz’s chest injury could affect the team’s plans.
As teams finalize their rosters, the Steelers focus on improving while facing these personnel challenges. Observing these changes and player performances can provide valuable insights into how their season might unfold. For further updates, you can follow sources like the [NFL](https://www.nfl.com/) or ESPN for real-time news.
