5 Steelers veterans who are on the roster bubble as training camp wraps up

The Pittsburgh Steelers roster is both talented and deep, and with a team who builds around the NFL Draft, young talent is constantly coming in to compete with more experienced players.

Although inexperienced, the finances of lighter rookie contracts, combined with raw talent can often outweigh the big contract and experience of veterans. The NFL can be a shrewd business, and as the Steelers are closing the end of training camp there are five veterans whose jobs could, repeat could, be in jeopardy as the team will be trimming their roster from 90 to 53 players at the conclusion of the preseason.

Check out the 5 veterans who could find themselves without a job when the dust settles:

William Gay

The 11 year veteran will be competing with young bucks like Cameron Sutton, Mike Hilton and Senquez Golson, but with Golson’s injury history it looks like Gay’s spot could be safe for 2017.

Likelihood of making the roster: Very Good

Knile Davis

The 5th year running back, and kick return specialist, was having a disappointing training camp, but had a solid performance against the New York Giants in Week 1 of the preseason. Davis will have to beat out Fitzgerald Toussaint to join Le’Veon Bell and James Conner as the three running backs on the depth chart.

Likelihood of making the roster: Good

Darrius Heyward-Bey

The wide receiver battle very well might be the most discussed position battle heading into the season, and with only six receivers likely to make the roster, and only two real positions up for grabs, DHB will have to prove himself worthy in a multitude of ways. His versatility, knowing the offense, willing to play special teams and his leadership skills certainly give him the nod over others, but his performance this preseason will also have to improve.

Likelihood of making the roster: Mediocre at best

Arthur Moats

Before his 3 sack, one interception, performance against the New York Giants Friday night, Moats very well could have found himself on the outside looking in, but if he continues to not only perform, but remain healthy, there is a strong chance he will be proven too valuable to let go.

Likelihood of making the roster: Good

Steven Johnson

Johnson and L.J. Fort are in the midst of a very tough battle at the inside linebacker position behind Vince Williams, Ryan Shazier and Tyler Matakevich. However, Johnson will have to show he can play solid special teams as well if he wants to lock up a roster spot. That competition brings in names of players like Keion Adams and others who will look at special teams as their lone job to the 53-man roster.

Likelihood of making the roster: Below average

I talk about this more in-depth on the latest Steelers Connection podcast. You can hear the podcast HERE. You can also listen to the show by accessing it through the player below:

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