Early 53 man roster projections for the Steelers after the 2023 NFL Draft

Steelers 53-man roster wide receivers (6): Diontae Johnson, George Pickens, Allen Robinson, Calvin Austin III, Miles Boykin, Gunner Olszewski

The group of wide receivers is a question of which special teamers will make the final roster. The three starters are locked in after the Steelers made an offseason trade for Allen Robinson in mid-April before the draft.

Beyond the trio of Johnson, Pickens, and Robinson, it is likely Pittsburgh won’t give up on Calvin Austin III after drafting him in the fourth round in 2022. Then, it comes down to who of Anthony Miller, Gunner Olszewski, and Miles Boykin makes the roster as the receiver reserves. Boykin and Olszewski were contributors last year on special teams which I think gives them a leg up.

Steelers 53-man roster tight end (3): Pat Freiermuth, Darnell Washington, Connor Hayward

At tight end, the one familiar name missing is Zach Gentry. The Steelers drafted his replacement in Darnell Washington in the third round of this year’s draft.

I think it’s unlikely the Steelers keep four tight ends and Connor Hayward just provides more in terms of formational flexibility and pass-catching ability than Gentry, so I think he sticks around as Freiermuth’s true pass-catching backup while Washington figures to make more of an impact blocking.