We're half way through the preseason. That means we're getting closer to trimming the roster down to 53 slots. Here's where I think we stand as of today:
Quarterbacks: Ben Roethlisberger, Charlie Batch, Omar Jacobs
Running Backs:Willie Parker, Verron Haynes, Dan Kreider, Duce StaleyWide Receivers:Hines Ward, Cedrick Wilson, Nate Washington, Santonio Holmes, Willie Reid, Sean Morey.Tight Ends:Heath Miller, Jerame TumanOffensive Line: Marvel Smith, Alan Faneca, Jeff Hartings, Kendall Simmons, Max Starks, Willie Colon, Trai Essex, Marvin Philip, Chris KemoeatuDefensive Line:
Aaron Smith, Casey Hampton, Brett Keisel, Chris Hoke, Travis Kirschke, Rodney Bailey, Orien Harris. Linebackers:Joey Porter, James Farrior, Larry Foote, Clark Haggans, James Harrison, Rian Wallace, Clint Kriewaldt, Andre Frazier, Arnold HarrisonCornerbacks: Deshea Townsend, Ike Taylor, Bryant McFadden, Ricardo Colclough, Chidi Iwuoma. SafetiesTroy Polamalu, Ryan Clark, Tyrone Carter, Anthony Smith, Mike Logan
Special Teams: Jeff Reed, Mike Barr, Greg WarrenAgree? Disagree? A few thoughts before opening it up. Omar Jacobs may very well be put on the practice squad. He's not going to play much, if at all this season unless disaster struck our season, meaning there may be better use for the roster spot. Remember how Coach Cowher guaranteed Nate Washington would be active on gamedays (read Cowher interview in below post if not)? That means 7 WRs would have to be activated if Quincy Morgan was to handle the return duties for us. I see Holmes and Reid getting the opportunity though. Sean Morey is valuable on special teams, but as a receiver, not so much. Some may disagree about him making the team over Morgan. Finally, we've been concerned about the offensive line, but take a look at our top tier guys. I'd go into battle with them any day of the week. A successful season requires a good amount of luck. If we stay healthy, our roster is stacked and primed for another run.