It's finally here, Thanksgiving day 2023. 

And while the Pittsburgh Steelers won't be suiting up until Sunday, they are still busy at work on the Southside this morning, holding a crucial day of practice ahead of the Bengals game. 

But with the day ending a little early so the team can catch up with family and enjoy some holiday classics, I decided to take five current Steelers and compare them to a few Thanksgiving staples:

Turkey: Cam Heyward

A holiday must-have, when you think Thanksgiving you think of Turkey. In a similar manner, the Steelers' defense just doesn't feel right without Cam Heyward. 

Since returning from groin surgery, the Steelers are 2-1, and have let up 19 points or less in each game. 

With turkey, you can bake it, fry it, brine it, or marinate it, and it will still taste good. Heyward can play anywhere on the defensive front and still be a force at every alignment. 

Mashed Potatoes and Gravy: Alex Highsmith 

Alex Highsmith is the mashed potatoes and gravy on this team. While you may not always notice him, and he isn't always the flashiest of players, if you show up on Thanksgiving day and there's no mashed potatoes, is it really even Thanksgiving? 

That's Highsmith. He doesn't get the attention he deserves, but if he were to disappear, the defense would be in shambles.  

Stuffing-Dressing: Minkah Fitzpatrick 

Minkah is the player version of stuffing-dressing for one reason: Versatility. 

Dressing can be made with breadcrumbs, crackers, or cornbread, flavored with a variety of herbs and spices, and prepared in different ways. 

That's Minkah. Whether he's playing in the box, the post, or covering tight ends, he's as effective as they come, and you know you can count on him to be solid if not exceptional on a snap to snap basis. 

Bread & Butter: T.J. Watt

I think it goes without saying but T.J. is the bread and butter of the Steelers franchise. When fresh and warmed up, hes just about unstoppable, similar to how a hot Hawaiian roll with honey butter is irresistible on Thanksgiving. 

Pumpkin Pie: Jaylen Warren 

Like the first bite of Pumpkin pie, Warren jumps off the screen when he runs, capturing the attention of the fanbase and turning up the intensity when the rest of the offense is sputtering. 

He's a sweet treat that packs a punch in a small package, analogous to a freshly sliced piece of the king of Thanksgiving desserts.  

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