5 biggest surprises from 2025 Steelers unofficial depth chart

USA Today

a day ago

Steelers fans rejoice, the 2025 unofficial depth chart has been unveiled!
The Pittsburgh Steelers have completely overhauled their roster through free agency, the 2025 NFL Draft, and trades this offseason — resulting in more than just a few positional shakeups. From co-position leaders to surprising rookie placements, here are the five biggest takeaways from the Steelers' 2025 unofficial depth chart.
DE Derrick Harmon is a Day 1 starter
Not all rookies are built the same, but the Steelers clearly view first-round DE Derrick Harmon as starting caliber — listing him as the DE1. There's clear excitement surrounding Harmon heading into Year 1, but the same can't be said, however, for rookie RB Kaleb Johnson.
Kaleb Johnson at RB3
After Johnson received a few first-team opportunities at training camp, many assumed Jaylen Warren and the Steelers' third-round rookie could function as the RB-1A and RB-1B — with Kenneth Gainwell serving as a potential receiving back on certain plays. But the unofficial depth chart has Johnson listed as the RB3, where he might remain through the early parts of the season.
Kenneth Gainwell, Jaylen Warren as kick returners
While Mike Tomlin hinted that the two running backs were in consideration for kickoff return duties, many assumed WR Roman Wilson was winning the competition after he was spotted handling the role at training camp. Warren has experience at the position, as does Gainwell, but tasking your top two listed running backs feels more like a placeholder move — with the real selection likely to come at a later date.
Jonnu Smith and Pat Freiermuth are competing for TE1
Many were shocked when Jonnu Smith was traded to Pittsburgh — but an equally surprising move is Freiermuth seemingly on the verge of losing TE1 responsibilities completely, as the two big pass catchers are co-leaders at the position. This battle is one to keep an eye on throughout preseason and the rest of training camp.
Steelers punting battle is alive and well
Despite many believing the return of P Cameron Johnston marked the beginning of the end for P Corliss Waitmann's Steelers tenure, both were listed as co-starters on the depth chart. Waitmann served admirably in Johnston's absence after the veteran suffered a season-ending knee injury last season and could potentially push him as preseason marches on.
For up-to-date Steelers coverage, follow us on X @TheSteelersWire and give our Facebook page a like.