Three Steelers roster cuts that may come back to bite them

The deadlines have all passed.  The Pittsburgh Steelers' initial 53-man roster is set following cut-down day and no waiver claims from the team.  And so, while we await the practice squad, of which these three players can still be added, they are no longer on the roster, and that could cost Pittsburgh at some point.  QB-WR […]

Rob Gregson NFL News Writer
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Aug 9, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Houston Texans quarterback Davis Mills (10) scrambles away from Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Kyron Johnson (53) during the second quarter at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-USA TODAY Sports
Barry Reeger-USA TODAY Sports

The deadlines have all passed. 

The Pittsburgh Steelers' initial 53-man roster is set following cut-down day and no waiver claims from the team. 

And so, while we await the practice squad, of which these three players can still be added, they are no longer on the roster, and that could cost Pittsburgh at some point. 


QB-WR John Rhys Plumlee

The likelihood of JRP playing either QB or WR was very low for the Steelers in 2024, but he was utilized as the team's premier kick returner during training camp and the preseason. 

He also made some splash throws late in the preseason finale against the Detroit Lions and is just a Swiss army knife that could be used whenever, wherever, however. 

As of now, he has yet to be claimed, sign with another team, or make the practice squad, but the latter can't be ruled out. 


FB Jack Colletto

Colletto may play a position that's on the endangered species list, but the use of a fullback is prevalent in Arthur Smith's offense and Colletto shined in his usage throughout camp. 

At least once a practice, there was a path-clearing block that would spring a back for a nice run in Seven Shots, team run, or 11 on 11. He also showed some versatility as a ball carrier and pass catcher, making him a prime candidate for the practice squad as well. 


EDGE Kyron Johnson

Johnson missed the cut as the fourth and final edge rusher, one that is expected to be manned by DeMarvin Leal as he works between inside and outside alignments along the defensive line. 

Johnson was by far the "bendiest" of the second tier of pass rushers, mirroring some of of the athleticism that has made Nick Herbig so impressive through his early career. 

But the run support and down-to-down usage wasn't on par with Pittsburgh's needs, so Johnson will also be looking for a spot on the practice squad.