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August 17, 2025
Studs and duds from the Steelers preseason loss to the Buccaneers
@TheSteelersWire
Steelers Wire
Studs and duds from the Steelers preseason loss to the Buccaneers

Pittsburgh’s 17-14 loss to Tampa Bay was a grindstone for evaluation. Roman Wilson flashed again, hauling in a couple of big catches and showing he could grab a meaningful role as Calvin Austin III battles injuries. Lew Nichols continued to pop as a potential No. 3 back, while Sebastian Castro stood out on defense with active play and six tackles. James Pierre struggled, underscoring how thin the Steelers’ corner depth might be without their assumed starters. Mason Rudolph’s outing tightened the QB conversation with Skylar Thompson, and Cameron Heyward’s absence opened a door for Derrick Harmon to flash in pass rush and run defense, including his first career sack. The safeties’ steadiness and the overall emphasis on evaluation rather than final results painted a clear picture: the Steelers are sorting roles ahead of the season, with a few young players staking claims and others needing to show more consistency.

Which Steelers preseason performance tip is most actionable for fantasy managers circling rookies and depth players this week?If the Steelers lean into the QB competition, which signals will indicate a clear Week 1 starter decision for Rudolph or Thompson?Which Steelers RBs should fantasy managers monitor for Week 1 upside given Nichols’ and Warren’s roles?What IDP opportunities emerge from Harmon's increased responsibilities with Heyward sidelined?
Mentions:
@Cameron Heyward | Pittsburgh Steelers | NFL
@Cameron Heyward | Pittsburgh Steelers | NFL
@Lew Nichols | Pittsburgh Steelers | NFL
@Lew Nichols | Pittsburgh Steelers | NFL
@Mason Rudolph | Pittsburgh Steelers | NFL
@Mason Rudolph | Pittsburgh Steelers | NFL
@Roman Wilson | Pittsburgh Steelers | NFL
@Roman Wilson | Pittsburgh Steelers | NFL
@Sebastian Castro | Pittsburgh Steelers | NFL
@Sebastian Castro | Pittsburgh Steelers | NFL

https://steelerswire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl..

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