Pittsburgh Steelers Unveil Their First 2025 Depth Chart Ahead of Preseason Opener
LATROBE, Pa. – As the Pittsburgh Steelers gear up for their preseason debut against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Saturday, August 9 at 7 p.m., fans finally got their hands on something they’ve eagerly been waiting for: the team’s first official depth chart of the 2025 season. This moment has become a tradition for many Steelers followers—a signal that football is officially back.
But while the announcement generates plenty of buzz, there weren’t many bombshell revelations. The layout and structure largely mirrored what’s been observed during practices at Saint Vincent College during training camp. And just like today’s NFL culture, this year’s Steelers depth chart reflects the evolving dynamics of football strategy, with 12 “starters” on offense and 12 on defense. This unusual twist underscores how personnel groupings and formation variety have replaced traditional 11-man unit designations.
Offense: Familiar Faces, Emerging Stars, and Strategic Flexibility
At the heart of the Steelers’ offense lies a group of names that have grown increasingly recognizable throughout the offseason and into the early stages of camp. The starting offensive line, for instance, is composed of:
Left Tackle: Broderick Jones
Left Guard: Isaac Seumalo
Center: Zach Frazier
Right Guard: Mason McCormick
Right Tackle: Troy Fautanu
This configuration has been the go-to unit during most training camp drills, and it aligns with what fans and analysts alike had projected. These five linemen form the foundation of Pittsburgh’s offensive identity heading into the preseason.
Tight End Configuration: A Blend of Versatility
In an interesting wrinkle that hints at offensive flexibility, the Steelers list two tight ends as “starters” but include three players across those positions. That’s because one tight end spot is labeled as a “Pat Freiermuth or Jonnu Smith” role. This shared designation suggests the Steelers are planning to rotate these two veterans situationally. Freiermuth is known for his reliable hands and route-running, while Smith brings athleticism and blocking ability. The second tight end spot is currently held by Darnell Washington, a towering and physical presence.
The decision to name both Freiermuth and Smith as potential starters further emphasizes how the Steelers plan to leverage multiple tight end sets, an increasingly popular strategy in today’s NFL.
Backfield & Wideouts: Shifts in Offensive Identity
Fullback: Connor Heyward
Running Back: Jaylen Warren
Wide Receivers: DK Metcalf and Calvin Austin III
While not every team uses a traditional fullback, Pittsburgh has consistently carved out a role for one in its offensive scheme. That’s where Connor Heyward comes in—his versatility and athleticism allow him to serve as a lead blocker, pass-catcher, or even H-back. Interestingly, rookie DJ Thomas-Jones is listed as Heyward’s backup, though he’s also frequently spotted working with the tight end group in practices. This dual-role visibility could lead to unique deployment in goal-line or short-yardage situations.
At running back, Jaylen Warren sits atop the chart, indicating the team’s confidence in his all-around game. Right behind him is Kenneth Gainwell, followed by Kaleb Johnson. Despite their placements, playing time will likely depend on game flow, matchups, and the specific personnel grouping being used.
Meanwhile, the wide receiver room saw one of its biggest offseason shifts with the acquisition of DK Metcalf, whose inclusion alongside Calvin Austin III gives the Steelers a blend of size, speed, and big-play ability. Metcalf’s veteran experience and red zone threat are complemented by Austin’s speed and route precision.
Quarterback Hierarchy: No Surprises
The quarterback depth chart is aligned exactly with the rotation observed throughout camp:
1. Aaron Rodgers
2. Mason Rudolph
3. Will Howard
4. Skylar Thompson
The signing of Aaron Rodgers was one of the most polarizing and discussed moves of the offseason. Though in the twilight of his career, the four-time MVP brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the franchise. Behind him, Rudolph maintains his status as a dependable backup, while rookie Will Howard continues his development. Skylar Thompson rounds out the group and provides additional depth.
Offensive Depth: Continuity and Competition
The reserve offensive linemen reflect a logical progression based on positional depth and camp performance. From left to right, backups are:
Calvin Anderson (LT)
Spencer Anderson (LG)
Ryan McCollum (C)
Max Scharping (RG)
Dylan Cook (RT)
Each of these players has seen rotational work in camp, and their rankings suggest they are the next men up should injuries strike or if in-game adjustments are required.
The running back and wide receiver backup groupings also follow a common sense hierarchy, based on prior NFL experience, camp performance, and draft pedigree. Again, the coaching staff made it clear that roles will shift depending on weekly matchups and offensive schemes—so the second-string label may not directly translate to playing time.
Defensive Structure: 3-4 Base With Modern Adjustments
As expected, Pittsburgh’s defense is listed in a traditional 3-4 alignment (three linemen and four linebackers), but in today’s NFL, base formations are rarely static. That’s why the depth chart lists 12 “starters”, with the nickel cornerback treated as a standard part of the starting group. This reflects the reality that most teams spend the majority of their snaps defending against three-receiver sets, thus requiring an additional defensive back.
Defensive Line
Cam Heyward
Keeanu Benton
Derrick Harmon (Rookie)
This trio forms the front wall. Heyward, a longtime stalwart, anchors the unit with leadership and strength. Benton is poised for a larger role this year after flashes of potential in limited action last season. Derrick Harmon is the only rookie listed as a defensive starter—a testament to how much the coaching staff believes in his talent and camp performance.
Inside Linebackers
Patrick Queen
Payton Wilson (ahead of Cole Holcomb)
Patrick Queen, signed from the division rival Ravens, gives the Steelers a dynamic playmaker at the heart of the defense. Alongside him, Payton Wilson has earned a surprising nod over veteran Cole Holcomb, indicating the rookie has impressed enough to potentially earn real reps during the preseason. This battle will likely continue to evolve.
Edge & Secondary Starters
Outside Cornerbacks: Joey Porter Jr. and Darius Slay
Nickel Cornerback: Jalen Ramsey
Safeties: DeShon Elliott and Juan Thornhill
Edge Rushers: T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith
This is a loaded secondary that combines veteran savvy with youthful athleticism. Ramsey as the designated nickel cornerback is a key move, allowing the team to take advantage of his physicality and instincts in the slot. Porter Jr. and Slay provide length and lockdown ability on the outside.
On the edges, T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith need no introduction. They’re one of the most feared pass-rushing tandems in football, and the depth behind them is being closely evaluated.
Defensive Depth: Names to Watch
Yahya Black, a rookie, is currently the third-string nose tackle, a placement that likely reflects his inexperience rather than his performance. He has the physical tools but will need to develop quickly.
DeMarvin Leal is now listed exclusively at outside linebacker, signaling a shift in his positional usage. He’s currently listed as a backup—or “either/or”—option with Jack Sawyer behind T.J. Watt. This adjustment could suggest a transition from defensive line to edge rusher full-time, something that coaches will monitor closely during preseason action.
Special Teams: Roles Are Still Being Sorted
The special teams section of the depth chart contains some fluid designations:
Punter: Either Corliss Waitman or Cameron Johnston
Holder: Either of the punters above
Placekicker: Chris Boswell
Long Snapper: Christian Kuntz
Punt Returner: Calvin Austin III
Kickoff Returner: Kenneth Gainwell
Austin and Gainwell both have experience as return men and bring explosiveness to the role, but return duties are often subject to change depending on ball security and in-game decisions. The punter and holder competitions are very much alive and will likely hinge on camp consistency and preseason performances.
Special Teams Impact on Final Roster Spots
One critical note mentioned with the release of this depth chart is the limited scope of the document when it comes to the full special teams picture. Besides the punters, kickers, and return specialists, the depth chart doesn’t reflect the full spectrum of kick coverage units, blockers, gunners, and other key contributors.
However, coaches often decide final roster spots based on who excels in these hidden areas. It’s not uncommon for fringe players to earn their keep by shining in special teams drills, making tackles on kickoff coverage, or creating havoc on punt return units. That’s why fans shouldn’t be surprised if a player low on the offensive or defensive depth chart ends up making the team thanks to special teams Players
Conclusion: Depth Chart Sets the Stage for Preseason Battles
While this first official depth chart doesn’t contain any jaw-dropping surprises, it offers a comprehensive overview of where things stand as the Steelers prepare for their first preseason clash against the Jaguars. It’s a living document—not a crystal ball. Position battles will rage on, rookies will rise or fall, and special teams contributions will make or break roster hopes.
In the meantime, this depth chart gives fans a valuable roadmap to follow as the preseason begins. It marks the starting point of what could be a pivotal year for the franchise, with seasoned veterans like Aaron Rodgers and T.J. Watt leading the charge, and promising young talent like Derrick Harmon, Payton Wilson, and Will Howard looking to make their mark.
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