The Steelers closed the preseason with a 19-10 win over the Panthers, highlighting a handful of standouts who could shape the final 53-man roster. Skylar Thompson connected efficiently (11-for-13, 152 yards, 1 TD) in a performance that teased quarterback depth for Pittsburgh. Lance McCutcheon flashed as a reliable target with 52 yards and a TD, while Scotty Miller partnered with Thompson for an explosive 82-yard outing that included a 53-yard bomb to set up a late-first-half field goal. On the ground, Trey Sermon added 53 yards from scrimmage on seven touches, showing poise and burst. James Pierre came up with an end-zone interception that underscored the secondary’s potential, and Yahya Black capped the night with two sacks, including a strip-sack. These performances could influence which veterans stay and which youngsters seize the opening-week roles, especially in the QB and WR rooms, and in the defensive front.

Tampa Bay squeezed out a 17-14 win at Acrisure Stadium behind a sharp showing from Bridgewater and a splash of early offense from TB’s youngsters. Bridgewater completed 6 of 11 passes for 85 yards with two touchdowns and two big-time throws, posting a sparkling 93.2 PFF passing grade on first look. Bucky Irving caught a 15-yard TD on one of his two targets, Emeka Egbuka added a five-yard score, and Jalen McMillan secured an 18-yard grab before leaving with a concussion protocol evaluation. TB’s attack was capped by a late 42-yard field goal from Chase McLaughlin after a Logan Woodside interception was returned by Antonio Grier, sealing the comeback. Pittsburgh’s defense bent at times but the Steelers’ backs piled up after contact, 90 of their 132 rushing yards coming after contact, while the line struggled in the run game. PFF’s grading and snap counts are coming, but the data already shout depth for TB at receiver and backfield, plus a potential QB2 spotlight in Bridgewater if this form sticks.

With Najee Harris moving to the Los Angeles Chargers, Jaylen Warren stands poised to take on the lead running back role for the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2025. Warren has shown impressive talent over the last few seasons, being among the few running backs to average over five yards per touch consistently. Accompanying him in the backfield would be Kenneth Gainwell, Trey Sermon, and rookie Kaleb Johnson, adding competition and depth to the position. Analysts are optimistic about Warren's ability to capitalize on this opportunity, but he must fend off challengers to secure his starting spot.

The Pittsburgh Steelers have further strengthened their roster with the signing of former Ohio State running back Trey Sermon to a one-year deal. This addition marks the sixth former Buckeye to join the Steelers, continuing their strategy of integrating talent from the prestigious program. Sermon brings a wealth of potential after a brief stint in the NFL, where he showcased his ability as a powerful runner. His inclusion adds depth to the Steelers' backfield, which already features established players like Najee Harris.

This move could significantly impact the Steelers' offensive strategy, especially considering their recent draft picks and free agency acquisitions from Ohio State, including players like Will Howard and Jack Sawyer. By investing in players with a shared experience and success in college, the Steelers are not only aiming for immediate performance but also building a cohesive unit that understands each other's playing style, which could translate to better on-field chemistry as they prepare for the upcoming season.