The Steelers’ Week 2 showcase was defined by a handful of standout performances that could tilt the regular-season depth chart. Roman Wilson flashed big-play ability with 72 yards on two catches in the first quarter, signaling a potential weekly boom if his preseason chemistry with Rodgers translates to the real games. Sebastian Castro sprinted all over the field on defense, finishing with five tackles and showing the range to threaten Pittsburgh’s safety group and contribute on special teams. Kaleb Johnson bounced back with 59 yards from 12 touches, underscoring a cleaner vision and burst in the backfield. Derrick Harmon asserted himself up front, delivering dominant moments including a sack on a rookie guard, hinting at a real run for the starting DE spot. Lew Nichols added a jolt of contact balance on a 37-yard rush, while Cole Holcomb capped a consistent preseason run with four tackles in limited time, reinforcing his case for a meaningful inside-backer role.

The Steelers rolled out a sharp preseason opener, and six standouts highlighted a growing depth map for fantasy owners. Mason Rudolph steered the offense efficiently, completing 9 of 10 for 84 yards and delivering an opening-drive TD that echoed his 2023 form. Darnell Washington leveraged his massive frame with a 19-yard red-zone score, while Scotty Miller flashed reliable hands with four catches for 47 yards. Ke'Shawn Williams burst onto the scene, grabbing two balls for 55 yards to lead the receiving corps, including a viral six-point TD. Cole Holcomb returned from his knee injury with decisive instincts, including a key third-down breakup on Tank Bigsby, and Skylar Thompson delivered a masterful 20-for-28, totaling 233 yards and three touchdowns. Tank Bigsby provided a moment for the Jaguars, but the Steelers showcased their depth and potential for rotation. Aaron Rodgers was a healthy scratch, underscoring the roster dynamic and how Pittsburgh might evaluate quarterbacks and receivers in the coming weekends.

Pittsburgh Steelers' linebacker Elandon Roberts has officially signed a one-year, $3 million contract with the Las Vegas Raiders, leaving behind a solid two-year stint with the Steelers. In 2023, Roberts emerged as a key defensive player, recording 101 tackles and helping the team reach the playoffs in back-to-back seasons. Previously, he played for the Miami Dolphins and was part of two Super Bowl-winning teams with the New England Patriots. The Steelers have since restructured Cole Holcomb's contract, adding depth to the linebacker position as they look to fill the void left by Roberts.

Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin is optimistic about fielding a fully healthy roster as they prepare to face the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 18. This includes the anticipated return of starting cornerback Joey Porter Jr., who missed the previous game against the Kansas City Chiefs due to a knee injury sustained in Week 16. Porter's return is crucial as the Steelers will confront one of the NFL's top receiving duos, Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, who recently excelled in a game against the Denver Broncos, combining for 20 receptions, 233 yards, and three touchdowns.

Alongside Porter, backup quarterback Justin Fields is also back in action after being sidelined with an abdominal issue. The Steelers have also activated the practice windows for rookie receiver Roman Wilson, who has been on injured reserve since late October due to a hamstring issue, and inside linebacker Cole Holcomb, who is recovering from a knee injury. Tomlin is eager to leverage a healthier lineup to break their three-game losing streak and secure their first playoff victory since 2016.

While the Steelers have already clinched a playoff spot, they still have significant stakes in the upcoming match. A victory against the Bengals, coupled with a Baltimore Ravens loss to the Cleveland Browns, would grant the Steelers the AFC North title and a home game in the wild-card round. Conversely, a win alone would ensure a fifth seed in the playoffs, setting up a wild-card matchup against the Houston Texans. Tomlin emphasized the importance of momentum heading into the playoffs, expressing his desire to erase the negative feelings from recent performances with a strong showing at Acrisure Stadium.

Pittsburgh Steelers rookie center Zach Frazier has navigated a challenging first season in the NFL, initially overwhelmed by the vast amount of information he had to process during training camp. However, as the season progressed, he has demonstrated significant growth, especially after being thrust into a starting role due to injuries to veteran teammates. With the Steelers securing a playoff spot, Frazier's transition from a nervous newcomer to a key player has been marked by resilience and adaptability.

Frazier's journey has not been without its hurdles. He faced a setback with an ankle injury that sidelined him for two games, but upon his return, he quickly regained his rhythm. The Steelers' offensive line has experienced numerous injuries, forcing Frazier to step up as a leader despite being a rookie. His ability to maintain composure and focus on the present has been crucial in helping him adapt to the demands of the NFL.

Looking ahead, Frazier is optimistic about the future of the Steelers' offensive line, especially with fellow rookies like Mason McCormick and Broderick Jones showing promise. As they continue to build chemistry, Frazier believes that their shared experiences will benefit the team in the long run. With the playoffs approaching, he acknowledges the need for continued improvement, but his early struggles have equipped him with valuable lessons for the challenges ahead.