Pittsburgh closed Week 1 of the preseason with a win and a passing-driven vibe, but the real story is the competition brewing behind the top starters. Kaleb Johnson flashed resilience behind a leaky run block, drawing a line between the tape and the box score, as the line’s woes watered down his true impact. Max Hurleman and Roc Taylor both pressed for a late-roster berth, turning exhibitions into auditioning grounds for the last WR spots. On the O-line, Troy Fautanu stood as a reliable anchor on run plays and pass protection, a small but meaningful win for the depth. Yahya Black flashed lateral agility in limited work and earned a bigger leash, while Jack Sawyer and DeMarvin Leal faced the need to raise their confidence and reps. Juan Thornhill assumed a vocal, steadying presence at free safety, and Chuck Clark’s opportunities to prove his value persisted, even as the defense navigated evolving roles. The undercurrent is clear: this roster battle isn’t decided on Week 1, but the path to the final cut line is narrowing by the day.

Fantasy managers should monitor Hurleman and Taylor as potential sleepers who could climb the depth chart if their quarterback chemistry holds. Johnson’s productivity is tethered to the line’s improvement, but his vision and patience suggest upside if Pittsburgh can fix the front. Fautanu’s performance argues for a steadier plug-and-play option on the edge of the starting unit, while Thornhill’s leadership could stabilize a secondary retooling. Leal still needs a breakout moment to shed the tweener label, and Clark’s veteran presence could stabilize the back end as the Steelers experiment with combinations. In short, the week’s performances hint at a few overnight roster movements and several players who could pay off as potential fantasy upside if and when the depth chart locks in.

Bottom line: a strong start for the passing game, but the Steelers still need to firm up the trenches and finish drives. The week’s standouts signal which names could push for real snaps when the bullets fly, while the rest will be concentrated into the practice-field chess match that leads to September.

Pittsburgh opens its preseason slate against Jacksonville with a turnover-heavy roster and several notable storylines for fantasy managers. With more than a dozen starters rested, the Steelers’ WR corps become a true audition, led by Scotty Miller, Roc Taylor, Roman Wilson, Ben Skowronek and Max Hurleman as they vie for camp spots. The tackle group hinges on Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu, but the depth behind them will be tested as Jones works to stabilize an unsettled O-line rotation. Mike Tomlin stresses clean football—fewer penalties, fewer turnovers—as the margin for error shrinks with backups sprinkled through the lineup. Rookie workloads will be intense: Harmon, Kaleb Johnson, Jack Sawyer, Yahya Black, Roc Taylor, Hurleman, Carson Burener and JJ Galbreath are all locked in heavy reps to prove they deserve a place on the 53-man roster. Even with Rodgers sidelined, this game lays groundwork for who to monitor in fantasy and best-ball drafts, and which players could emerge as DFS value plays in Week 1.

The 2025 NFL Draft class is producing some intriguing undrafted free agent wide receivers who could become valuable fantasy assets. Among the top names is Efton Chism III, signed by the New England Patriots. Chism has created a buzz in minicamps and has a lucrative contract that suggests the team sees potential in him, particularly in Josh McDaniels' system.

Similarly, Nick Nash of the Atlanta Falcons had a record-setting college season, leading the FBS with 104 receptions, and is drawing attention for his potential to become a playmaker in the NFL. Andrew Armstrong of the Miami Dolphins, Roc Taylor from the Pittsburgh Steelers, and Xavier Restrepo of the Tennessee Titans also show promise as sleeper picks for fantasy enthusiasts.

The Pittsburgh Steelers made substantial moves by signing seven undrafted free agents following the 2025 NFL Draft. Among the standout signings, wide receiver Roc Taylor, despite being undrafted, showcases impressive athleticism and potential, making him a favorite to secure a roster spot. Defensive back Sebastian Castro brings experience and could excel on special teams. While kicker Ben Sausl aims to impress in camp, tight end JJ Galbreath may challenge existing players for a place in the lineup.

Fullback DJ Thomas-Jones received a historic UDFA bonus, raising eyebrows given the team's past comments on the fullback position. Aiden Williams, a college tackle, is poised for a training camp battle, while Ke'Shawn Williams's determination as a slot receiver in a competitive landscape will be crucial. With these additions, the Steelers aim to fortify their roster and increase competition heading into the upcoming season.

The 2025 NFL Draft may have concluded, but the excitement continues with the Pittsburgh Steelers' undrafted free agent signings. As teams scramble to secure promising prospects, the Steelers have already made notable additions. Among them is Sebastion Castro from Iowa, who brings a strong defensive presence. Wide receiver Roc Taylor from Memphis adds depth to the receiving corps, while Minnesota-Duluth's Aiden Williams joins the fray, showcasing potential offensive talent. Tight end DJ Thomas-Jones from South Alabama completes the latest batch of UDFAs, hinting at an aggressive approach to bolster the roster.