Steelers vs Colts Preseason Week 3: 6 defensive players to watch

Time is running out for forty-some players desperately trying to cash in on their NFL dreams. Saturday against the Colts will be crucial for players hopes of remaining in Pittsburgh. BTSC has eyes on a few on defense, look for these guys this weekend.

No. 20 CB Cameron Sutton

It looks like the third rounder out of Tennessee will get his chance to see his first action at home against Indianapolis on Saturday. Missing a majority of the preseason sets Sutton back a bit, but he could work his way into the rotation and possibly start laying the foundation for starting gig with a good performance. There’s a lot of excitement surrounding Cam. He’s been described as instinctive with jumping routes in very good in man coverage from the snap. But there’s also concern that another early round corner pick may turn into nothing due to injury.

No. 69 DL Roy Philon

Philon is a returning practice squad player trying to break into a backup role on the defensive line. With L.T. Walton and Tyson Alualu likely set, Philon, Johnny Maxey and Daniel McCullers are competing for the sixth spot. The time is now for Philon to claim his spot.

No. 41 LB Farrington Huguenin

The 6-foot 4-inch, 262-pounder out of Kentucky has had two sacks in two preseason games with Pittsburgh. The undrafted free agent spent parts of 2016 with Miami. The LB corp is crowded with talent, but Hugenin has been described as a powerful run stopper. He could possibly sneak onto the 53, or be a practice squad addition with promise.

No. 24 CB Coty Sensabaugh and No. 31 CB Ross Cockrell

Is it a shakeup at cornerback, or is this just a situation where the Steelers are letting Sensabaugh get first-team reps? Cockrell did not have his best day last week, and team tensions seem to be due to the Steeler secondary. Sensabaugh has been impressive and could move into the starting role with a competent week. However, Cockrell is intelligent and has shown the propensity to bounce back. This is a battle to watch.

No. 38 CB Deshaun Phillips

Phillips, the third-year man out of Tarleton State, played the last two years in Washington and was acquired via trade on Wednesday for C Lucas Crowley. Phillips will be worked in to the lineup on Saturday to see if he warrants a hat.

Here's what Tomlin had to say about Phillips and his press conference on Thursday.

"Excited to get the new guy into the fold and maybe get a chance to see what he is capable of in a short period of time. I know he is an NFL capable player. He has played in this league. He has played against us. All of those things were attractive. We'll judge him in terms of what we can do with him based on what he does once he gets here. That is the only thing that is appropriate to do."