Steelers Depth Chart 2023: Analysis & Projections

Hey Steelers fans! Let's dive deep into the Steelers depth chart for 2023. With the season fast approaching, everyone’s eager to see how the roster stacks up and who’s poised to make a significant impact. We'll break down each position, analyze key players, and offer projections on what to expect this season.

Quarterbacks

The quarterback position is always under the spotlight, and for the Steelers, it's no different. Heading into 2023, Kenny Pickett is firmly entrenched as the starter. After being drafted in the first round in 2022, Pickett showed flashes of potential and the team is banking on him taking a big leap forward in his second year. His decision-making improved as the season progressed, and his connection with the receiving corps grew stronger. The Steelers' coaching staff has emphasized the importance of building around Pickett, giving him the keys to the offense.

Behind Pickett, the Steelers have veteran Mitch Trubisky. Trubisky provides valuable experience and a reliable backup option. He started a few games last season and while the results were mixed, his presence offers a safety net should Pickett miss time due to injury. Trubisky's familiarity with the offense and his ability to manage the game make him a solid number two.

Rounding out the quarterback room is Mason Rudolph. Rudolph is a seasoned backup who knows the Steelers' system inside and out. Although he may not have the same upside as Pickett or Trubisky, his experience and knowledge of the playbook make him a valuable asset in the quarterback room. Rudolph's presence provides depth and stability, ensuring that the Steelers are well-prepared for any situation.

The Steelers have invested heavily in their quarterback position, and the hope is that Kenny Pickett can emerge as a franchise quarterback. With a solid supporting cast and experienced backups, the Steelers are well-positioned at the most important position on the field. The development of Pickett will be a key storyline to watch throughout the 2023 season.

Running Backs

The Steelers running back situation is looking robust for 2023, led by the dynamic Najee Harris. As the primary ball carrier, Harris is expected to shoulder a significant workload and be a focal point of the Steelers' offense. His ability to run between the tackles, catch passes out of the backfield, and provide solid pass protection makes him an invaluable asset. The Steelers will rely on Harris to establish the running game and take pressure off the passing attack.

Backing up Harris is Jaylen Warren, who impressed many with his explosiveness and versatility. Warren provides a change-of-pace option and has shown the ability to make plays in both the running and passing game. His quickness and agility make him a valuable asset in the Steelers' offense, and he's expected to see an increased role in 2023. Warren's emergence has given the Steelers a potent one-two punch in the backfield.

Also in the mix is Anthony McFarland Jr., who brings speed and potential to the running back room. McFarland has the opportunity to carve out a role as a change-of-pace back and contribute on special teams. His ability to hit the home run makes him an intriguing option for the Steelers' coaching staff. The Steelers will look for McFarland to showcase his speed and contribute in a meaningful way.

With a strong lead back in Najee Harris and talented backups like Jaylen Warren and Anthony McFarland Jr., the Steelers have a well-rounded running back group. The Steelers will look to establish a consistent running game in 2023, and this talented group of backs will be instrumental in achieving that goal. The success of the Steelers' offense may hinge on their ability to effectively run the ball.

Wide Receivers

The Steelers wide receiver corps is shaping up to be a dynamic and exciting group in 2023. Leading the charge is Diontae Johnson, the established veteran and primary target in the passing game. Johnson's route-running ability, sure hands, and knack for getting open make him a reliable and productive receiver. The Steelers will rely on Johnson to be a consistent threat and lead the receiving corps.

Alongside Johnson, George Pickens is poised to make a significant impact in his second season. Pickens flashed his potential as a rookie, making several highlight-reel catches and showcasing his ability to stretch the field. With his size, speed, and athleticism, Pickens has the potential to become a star receiver in the NFL. The Steelers are excited about his development and expect him to play a major role in the offense.

Adding to the mix is Allen Robinson II, a seasoned veteran who brings experience and reliability to the Steelers' receiving corps. Robinson is a proven commodity with a track record of success. His ability to make tough catches and contribute in the red zone will make him a valuable asset. The Steelers will look to Robinson to provide a steady presence and contribute in key situations.

Behind the top three, the Steelers have several promising young receivers vying for roster spots and playing time. Guys like Calvin Austin III bring speed and versatility to the offense. Austin's ability to stretch the field and make plays after the catch could make him a valuable weapon for the Steelers. The Steelers will be looking for him to make an impact on special teams as well.

With a blend of established veterans and promising young talent, the Steelers' wide receiver group has the potential to be one of the most exciting in the league. The Steelers will look to their receivers to make plays and help lead the offense to new heights in 2023. The development of this group will be a key factor in the Steelers' success.

Tight Ends

The Steelers tight end position is led by Pat Freiermuth, who has quickly become a reliable target in the passing game. Freiermuth's size, strength, and receiving ability make him a valuable asset in the Steelers' offense. He's a skilled route runner and has a knack for finding the end zone. The Steelers will rely on Freiermuth to be a consistent threat in the passing game and a key contributor in the red zone.

Behind Freiermuth, the Steelers have Darnell Washington. Washington is known primarily for his blocking. His size and strength make him an excellent run blocker, and he provides valuable support in pass protection. The Steelers will look to Washington to contribute in the running game and provide a physical presence at the tight end position.

Also competing for playing time is Connor Heyward, who offers versatility and athleticism. Heyward can contribute as a receiver and blocker, and his ability to play multiple positions makes him a valuable asset. The Steelers will look for Heyward to contribute on special teams and provide depth at the tight end position.

With a mix of receiving threats and blocking specialists, the Steelers have a well-rounded tight end group. The Steelers will look to their tight ends to contribute in both the passing and running game, and this group has the potential to be a key factor in the team's success in 2023. The development of the tight end position will be important for the Steelers' offense.

Offensive Line

The Steelers offensive line has been an area of focus in recent years, and the team has invested heavily in improving the unit. Anchoring the line is veteran center Mason Cole, who provides stability and leadership. Cole's experience and knowledge of the game make him a valuable asset, and the Steelers will rely on him to anchor the line and make the calls.

At the tackle positions, the Steelers have Dan Moore Jr. and first-round pick Broderick Jones. Jones is expected to step into a starting role and provide a boost to the Steelers' offensive line. His athleticism, strength, and technique make him an exciting prospect. The Steelers are banking on him to be a cornerstone of the offensive line for years to come.

At the guard positions, the Steelers have Isaac Seumalo and James Daniels. Seumalo is a seasoned veteran who brings experience and reliability to the Steelers' offensive line. His ability to pass protect and contribute in the running game makes him a valuable asset. The Steelers will look to Seumalo to provide a steady presence and contribute in key situations.

The Steelers have invested significant resources in their offensive line, and the team is hoping that this unit can take a step forward in 2023. A strong offensive line is essential for protecting the quarterback and establishing the running game, and the Steelers are counting on their offensive line to be a key factor in their success.

Defensive Line

The Steelers defensive line remains a strength of the team, led by perennial All-Pro Cameron Heyward. Heyward is the heart and soul of the Steelers' defense, and his leadership, talent, and relentless effort set the tone for the entire unit. The Steelers will rely on Heyward to anchor the defensive line and disrupt opposing offenses.

Alongside Heyward, Larry Ogunjobi is expected to play a key role on the defensive line. Ogunjobi brings a combination of strength, quickness, and athleticism. The Steelers will look to Ogunjobi to provide interior pressure and disrupt the running game.

DeMarvin Leal is another player to watch on the defensive line. Leal has the potential to develop into a disruptive force. The Steelers will look for Leal to continue his development and contribute in a meaningful way.

The Steelers have a talented and deep defensive line, and this unit will be crucial to the team's success in 2023. The Steelers will rely on their defensive line to pressure the quarterback, stop the run, and create turnovers. The strength of the Steelers' defense starts with their defensive line.

Linebackers

The Steelers linebacker corps has undergone some changes in recent years, but the team still has several talented players at the position. T.J. Watt is the star of the Steelers' defense. Watt's ability to rush the passer, stop the run, and create turnovers makes him one of the most disruptive defensive players in the league.

Alex Highsmith has emerged as a key player on the Steelers' defense. Highsmith has developed into a reliable pass rusher and run defender. The Steelers will look to Highsmith to continue his development and provide a consistent presence on the edge.

Inside linebacker Cole Holcomb is expected to play a significant role. Holcomb's athleticism and coverage skills make him a valuable asset in the passing game. The Steelers will look to Holcomb to provide stability and leadership.

The Steelers have a talented group of linebackers, and this unit will be crucial to the team's success in 2023. The Steelers will rely on their linebackers to rush the passer, stop the run, and provide coverage in the passing game. The performance of the Steelers' linebackers will be a key factor in the team's defensive success.

Cornerbacks

The Steelers cornerback group features a mix of youth and experience. Patrick Peterson brings veteran leadership and a wealth of experience to the Steelers' secondary. Peterson's knowledge of the game and ball skills make him a valuable asset. The Steelers will look to Peterson to provide stability and leadership.

Levi Wallace is expected to play a significant role at cornerback. Wallace's size and physicality make him a valuable asset in run support. The Steelers will look to Wallace to provide a consistent presence and contribute in key situations.

Joey Porter Jr. was drafted in the 2nd round. Porter's size and athleticism make him an exciting prospect. The Steelers are banking on him to be a cornerstone of the secondary for years to come.

The Steelers have invested resources in their cornerback group, and the team is hoping that this unit can take a step forward in 2023. A strong secondary is essential for defending the passing game, and the Steelers are counting on their cornerbacks to be a key factor in their success.

Safeties

The Steelers safety tandem is led by Minkah Fitzpatrick, one of the premier safeties in the NFL. Fitzpatrick's range, ball skills, and playmaking ability make him a game-changer on the back end of the Steelers' defense. The Steelers will rely on Fitzpatrick to make plays, create turnovers, and lead the secondary.

Alongside Fitzpatrick, Damontae Kazee is expected to play a significant role at safety. Kazee's coverage skills and versatility make him a valuable asset. The Steelers will look to Kazee to provide a consistent presence and contribute in key situations.

The Steelers have a talented and versatile safety group, and this unit will be crucial to the team's success in 2023. The Steelers will rely on their safeties to make plays, create turnovers, and provide coverage in the passing game. The performance of the Steelers' safeties will be a key factor in the team's defensive success.

Special Teams

Special teams are often overlooked, but they can be a crucial factor in determining the outcome of games. The Steelers special teams unit is led by veteran kicker Chris Boswell, who has been one of the most reliable kickers in the league. Boswell's accuracy and consistency make him a valuable asset, and the Steelers will rely on him to make important kicks.

Punter Pressley Harvin III handles the punting duties. Harvin's strong leg and ability to boom the ball downfield make him a valuable asset. The Steelers will look to Harvin to flip the field and give their defense an advantage.

Gunner Olszewski is the primary return specialist for the Steelers. Olszewski's speed and agility make him a dangerous return man. The Steelers will look to Olszewski to provide a spark on special teams and create opportunities for the offense.

The Steelers place a high priority on special teams, and the team has invested resources in improving this unit. A strong special teams unit can make a significant difference in close games, and the Steelers are counting on their special teams to be a key factor in their success.

Alright, Steelers Nation, that's a comprehensive look at the Steelers depth chart for 2023! Keep checking back for updates as training camp progresses and the season approaches. Here’s to a successful year! #HereWeGo