Although the dust has barely settled from the 2025 NFL Draft, we can still make a very early prediction for the Pittsburgh Steelers’ roster. This outline showcases what the team might look like at the final cutdowns and includes the initial 53-man roster. Many factors will alter this prediction over the coming months, especially training camp performances, but based on the current situation, here’s my forecast for the team at the start of September.
OFFENSE – 25
Quarterbacks (3) – Aaron Rodgers, Mason Rudolph, Will Howard
Analysis: It’s unusual to include Rodgers since he’s not officially on the roster yet. His future is uncertain, but it’s likely he’ll sign with the Steelers, making his inclusion necessary for an accurate roster projection. Howard, a promising sixth-round pick, is also expected to make the team, although he must compete with Skylar Thompson for the No. 3 spot, given Thompson’s NFL experience.
Running Backs (3) – Jaylen Warren, Kaleb Johnson, Kenneth Gainwell
Analysis: Cordarrelle Patterson is still on the roster but may not make it to training camp. Warren, Johnson, and Gainwell seem like sure bets for Pittsburgh’s revamped backfield.
DEFENSE – 25
Defensive Ends (4) – Cam Heyward, Derrick Harmon, Daniel Ekuale, Isaiahh Loudermilk
Analysis: This will be a fresh defensive ends group, with both Harmon and Ekuale expected to play significant roles. Harmon is likely to start at left defensive end and rotate during sub-packages. Loudermilk gets the nod over other contenders for the last spot, leaving fifth-round pick Yahya Black off the roster for now due to inconsistency.
Nose Tackles (2) – Keeanu Benton, Logan Lee
Analysis: Benton appears to be firmly in place as the starting nose tackle, earning praise from the coaching staff. Lee’s classification as a nose tackle is debatable, but he’s been utilized in that capacity previously.
SPECIAL TEAMS – 3
Kicker (1) – Chris Boswell
Analysis: This choice is anticipated. Boswell might receive a salary increase for his outstanding performance in 2024.
Punter (1) – Cameron Johnston
Analysis: Johnston is currently the frontrunner, coming off a knee injury last season, although Corliss Waitman did a commendable job filling in. The Steelers may still prefer Johnston for long-term plans, depending on his camp performance.
Gameday Inactives (Week 1): Will Howard, Roman Wilson, Aiden Williams, Logan Lee, Cole Holcomb
The inactive list can change throughout the season. Woods is currently favored over Wilson, while Holcomb is held in reserve until further needed.
