The Pittsburgh Steelers wrapped up their 2024 preseason without a single victory, finishing 0-3. Despite the lack of wins, the preseason provided crucial insights into the roster as the Steelers prepare for their Week 1 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons on September 8th. Hereâs a breakdown of the top three winners and losers from Pittsburgh’s preseason.
Winners
1. OLB Nick Herbig
Nick Herbig emerged as one of the most impressive players for the Steelers this preseason. Drafted in the fourth round in 2023, Herbig made the most of his limited playing time, especially in a crowded linebacker group featuring T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith.
Herbigâs Preseason Impact:
| Game | Tackles | Sacks | Forced Fumbles |
|---|---|---|---|
| vs. Houston Texans | 3 | 0.5 | 0 |
| vs. Buffalo Bills | 5 | 2 | 1 |
| vs. Detroit Lions | 4 | 1 | 0 |
Herbig’s performance in Weeks 2 and 3 demonstrated his potential as a key rotational player, tallying 3.5 sacks and a forced fumble over those two games. His explosive play style and strong work ethic, fostered by his connection with Watt, have positioned him as a significant contributor in the upcoming season.
2. C Zach Frazier
Zach Frazier, a second-round draft pick, faced a challenging start when he was listed as the backup center on the depth chart. However, with Nate Herbig sidelined due to a torn rotator cuff, Frazier seized his opportunity and delivered standout performances.
Frazierâs Preseason Performance:
| Game | Snaps Played | QB Pressures Allowed | Notable Moments |
|---|---|---|---|
| vs. Houston Texans | 25 | 0 | Strong run blocking |
| vs. Buffalo Bills | 40 | 0 | Excellent pass protection |
| vs. Detroit Lions | 38 | 1 | One botched snap, but overall solid play |
Despite a minor mistake with a botched snap against the Lions, Frazierâs overall performance was strong enough to earn him the starting center role, making him a significant winner this preseason.
3. P Cameron Johnston
After years of inconsistency from Pressley Harvin III, the Steelers brought in veteran punter Cameron Johnston from the Houston Texans. Johnstonâs powerful and consistent punting provided a noticeable upgrade for the Steelers’ special teams.
Johnstonâs Preseason Stats:
| Game | Punts | Average Yards | Inside 20 |
|---|---|---|---|
| vs. Houston Texans | 5 | 48.2 | 2 |
| vs. Buffalo Bills | 6 | 49.5 | 3 |
| vs. Detroit Lions | 4 | 50.0 | 2 |
Johnstonâs ability to consistently flip field position gives Pittsburgh a strategic advantage, and his performance this preseason hints at the possibility of his first Pro Bowl selection in 2024.
Losers
1. QB Justin Fields
Despite showing growth as a passer, Justin Fields ended the preseason as a notable loser in the Steelers’ quarterback competition. Fields struggled to command the offense and failed to secure a touchdown drive until the final preseason game.
Fieldsâ Preseason Struggles:
| Game | Completion Percentage | Yards | Touchdowns | Interceptions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| vs. Houston Texans | 54% | 112 | 0 | 1 |
| vs. Buffalo Bills | 58% | 138 | 0 | 0 |
| vs. Detroit Lions | 61% | 160 | 1 | 0 |
Although Fields showed flashes of potential, it wasnât enough to change Coach Mike Tomlinâs mind, and Russell Wilson will likely be the Week 1 starter against Atlanta.
2. WR Calvin Austin III
Calvin Austin III was expected to step up as a key receiver this preseason but failed to solidify his spot on the depth chart. Competing against Van Jefferson and Roman Wilson, Austin’s opportunities were limited.
Austinâs Preseason Performance:
| Game | Receptions | Yards | Targets |
|---|---|---|---|
| vs. Houston Texans | 2 | 49 | 3 |
| vs. Buffalo Bills | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| vs. Detroit Lions | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Austinâs lack of impact, particularly after the first game, makes him one of the biggest disappointments of the preseason. With limited chances to prove himself, he remains buried on the depth chart as the regular season begins.
3. OT Broderick Jones
Broderick Jones, the Steelersâ 2023 first-round pick, struggled significantly this preseason, raising concerns about his readiness to protect the quarterback.
Jonesâ Preseason Woes:
| Game | Snaps Played | Sacks Allowed | Penalties |
|---|---|---|---|
| vs. Houston Texans | 45 | 1 | 1 |
| vs. Buffalo Bills | 50 | 2 | 1 |
| vs. Detroit Lions | 55 | 2 | 0 |
Jones allowed four sacks over the last two games, raising doubts about his ability to compete at the highest level. Although an arm injury may be contributing to his struggles, Jones needs to step up if he hopes to retain his starting spot.
Conclusion: Preparing for the Regular Season
The Steelersâ preseason may have ended without a win, but it provided valuable insights into the teamâs strengths and weaknesses. The winners, like Herbig, Frazier, and Johnston, have set themselves up for significant roles in the regular season, while the losers, particularly Fields, Austin, and Jones, have work to do if they hope to contribute.
As the Steelers turn their focus to Week 1 against the Atlanta Falcons, these preseason lessons will be crucial in shaping the teamâs approach. The regular season is just around the corner, and Steeler Nation is ready.