clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile

Filed under:

Steelers 2016 Roster, 90 in 90 Days: Chris Hubbard the interior line depth Pittsburgh needs

In a new feature at BTSC, we are breaking down the Steelers 90-man roster one player, one position, one day at a time. The conclusion of this feature will be the start of the 2016 season.

Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Player: Chris Hubbard

Position: G/C

School: Alabama Birmingham

Overview: As an undrafted former practice squad player, the odds were always against Hubbard making it to the NFL. After spending some time on the practice squad, Hubbard saw some regular season action in 2014 and 2015. Not to pile on the guy -- after all just making it to the NFL is quite an achievement -- but from his rare appearances in games it's been pretty clear why he was undrafted.

The best case for Hubbard is to make himself into a solid backup that can play all the line positions. Team's always need depth there, but his individual value isn't so high that he'll ever have an assured spot, rather, Hubbard is always going to have to fight to make the 53-man roster as long as he's in the NFL.

What bodes well for Hubbard is his versatility, his experience with the Steelers, and the unfortunate likelihood of injuries being an issue along the line forcing someone to miss at least some time. What doesn't look so good for Hubbard is the fact the Steelers already have Cody Wallace as a fill in in the interior, signed Ryan Harris to compete with or possibly backup Villanueva at the tackle spot, and signed B.J. Finney to a new contract to keep him. Those moves show the Steelers have not yet been impressed with what they've seen from Hubbard. If all goes according to plan, it's probably between Hubbard and Finney for the last spot on the team. May the best (line)man win.

Strengths:
Versatility - Can play every line position and even be used as a third tight end
Experienced with Steelers - Entering third year with the organization
Showed willingness to do whatever it takes to make the team

Weaknesses:
Limited usage - only on the field for 34 snaps
Team not confident in his ability - made multiple moves to bring in other player his fill the same needs
Battling for spot number "53" on the 53-man roster

Chances of Making the team: 20%