Steelers Roster Battles: 2 Cutdown Candidates Fighting

As the 2024 NFL regular season approaches, the Pittsburgh Steelers are set to make their final roster cuts, trimming down from 90 players to 53. With the preseason finale against the Detroit Lions on the horizon, several players find themselves on the roster bubble, fighting to prove they belong on the team.

Among them, edge rusher Jeremiah Moon and hybrid cornerback-safety Ryan Watts stand out as top candidates who could secure their spots with strong performances.

Edge Jeremiah Moon has shown promise throughout the preseason, particularly in his Week 1 debut, where he recorded his first sack in a Steelers uniform. Moon is in a tight competition with Kyron Johnson for the final pass-rushing position following Markus Golden’s sudden retirement.

Johnson, known for his speed and agility, made a significant impact in the second preseason game, showcasing the traits that could make him a valuable asset to the defense. As the final preseason game approaches, the decision on who will make the roster might come down to a single play—potentially a crucial sack. Moon’s ability to replicate or surpass his Week 1 performance could be the key to securing his spot on the 53-man roster.

Cornerback/Safety Ryan Watts has been one of the most impressive players in the Steelers training camp, especially considering his status as a sixth-round rookie. Watts led the team in tackles in the last preseason game, demonstrating his versatility and impact as a hybrid cornerback-safety.

His performance has sparked discussions about the possibility of him overtaking veteran safety Damontae Kazee for a roster spot. While this outcome might seem unlikely, a standout performance in the final preseason game could force the Steelers to make a difficult decision. Watts has shown that he can play at a high level, and if he continues to excel, he could earn a spot on the roster as a dynamic and versatile defensive back.

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As the Steelers prepare to face the Lions, the stakes are high for Moon and Watts. Their performances in this final preseason matchup will be critical in determining whether they make the cut. Both players have shown the potential to contribute to the Steelers' defense, but they will need to deliver when it matters most.