Three Steelers Veterans Who Should Feel Nervous Under the New Coaching Staff
The Steelers' veteran players are facing an uncertain future under the new coaching staff, and it's time to take a closer look at three players who might feel the heat.
Last week, we discussed the young Steelers who need to make an immediate impact. But the veterans are also feeling the pressure. With a fresh start, the new coaching staff is evaluating the entire roster, and some seasoned players might find themselves on the chopping block.
Let's dive into the three veterans who could be feeling nervous about their standing under Mike McCarthy's regime. We've excluded the well-known cap casualties, such as Jalen Ramsey, Jonnu Smith, Patrick Queen, and Malik Harrison, from this list.
QB Mason Rudolph: The future of Mason Rudolph in Pittsburgh is uncertain. While an Aaron Rodgers return seems likely, the Steelers have 12 draft picks, and they could still add a quarterback in the draft. If Rodgers returns and the Steelers draft a young quarterback, like LSU's Garrett Nussmeier or Alabama's Ty Simpson, Rudolph's path to the roster becomes more challenging. The Steelers typically keep three quarterbacks, so a fourth might not make the cut.
WR Ben Skowronek: Ben Skowronek's special teams prowess earned him a Pro Bowl nod in 2025. However, he's in a position where he's always near the roster bubble. With the Steelers expected to overhaul their receiver corps, Skowronek could feel the heat. If Pittsburgh signs a starting-caliber receiver in free agency and drafts two more, Skowronek might find himself on the outside looking in. The Steelers value special teamers, but they might prioritize a return specialist, which could bump Skowronek off the roster.
SS DeShon Elliott: DeShon Elliott had a stellar 2024 season, but injuries plagued him in 2025. With his age and recent knee injury, Elliott's spot on the roster is not entirely secure. The Steelers are likely to draft a safety, and if they decide to focus on speed and youth in the secondary, Elliott might be looking over his shoulder. His extension from last June is modest, and the team could easily get out of it if they choose to move on.
These three veterans are feeling the pressure as the new coaching staff evaluates the roster. Will they make the cut? It's anyone's guess, but one thing is certain: the Steelers' veterans are not immune to the cut-down period in August. So, who will make the final roster? It's a question that will keep Steelers fans on the edge of their seats.
