Steelers: 3 players who clinched a roster spot so far this preseason

2. RB Kalen Ballage

They finished dead last in the league in rushing yards a season ago. For the most part, the Steelers’ ground attack has been subpar for the better part of three seasons. Hence a new offensive coordinator (Matt Canada), a new-look offensive line and the utilization of a first-round pick in April on Alabama running back Najee Harris.

It was the first time since 2008 that the organization selected a player at this position since 2008. In recent years, the team has grabbed players such as James Conner, Benny Snell Jr., Jaylen Samuels and Anthony McFarland to add punch to the ground attack. It’s worth noting that Le’Veon Bell’s last season with the club was 2017.

The Steelers added Kalen Ballage in free agency this year. He did not appear in the team’s preseason win at Philadelphia but carries five times for 19 yards and a score in the Hall of Fame game. He has shown some burst and it’s something the offense could use. So it wouldn’t be a shock if he made a few other players in the backfield expendable.

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1. QB Dwayne Haskins

It’s been less about the numbers and more about how he has handled a second chance. Former Ohio State quarterback Dwayne Haskins was a first-round pick by Washington in 2019 and on the street before the conclusion of 2020.

The Steelers signed him to a futures contract earlier this year. As the franchise looks for not only a backup but a possible successor to Ben Roethlisberger, the young performer has embraced the chance. There were questions about his maturity but he has responded in many ways in a new venue.

As far as the statistics, he’s connected on a combined 24-of-35 throws for 215 yards, one score and zero interceptions. He’s in a battle with Mason Rudolph and Josh Dobbs for a place on the roster. Could the Steelers keep three quarterbacks? In any case, it’s been a nice 2021 to date for the former Buckeyes’ standout.