Updating Steelers’ training camp battles after the Hall of Fame game

Taking a look at the Steelers’ training camp battles after they completed one of their four preseason games.

The Pittsburgh Steelers are a roster which is set at several positions, but that doesn’t mean they don’t have several camp battles which are unfolding before our very eyes. Before the start of training camp myself and Dave Schofield outlined several camp battles which will be worth watching. After the Hall of Fame game, and now preparing for the Philadelphia Eagles in the Week 1 preseason game, it is time to take a look at where these battles stand.

Let’s get to it…

Center

Kendrick Green vs. B.J. Finney vs. J.C. Hassenauer

Take a look at the pre-camp article below:

After the Cowboys game, it seems as if Kendrick Green is the owner of the starting center spot, until he proves he cannot handle those duties/responsibilities. In other words, unless he does nothing but botch snaps and assignments, Green seems to be the guy in the middle for the Steelers. Then comes the conversation who else remains on the roster? At this point Finney’s position flexibility could give him the edge over Hassenauer.

Cornerback

James Pierre vs. Justin Layne

Take a look at the pre-camp article below:

There is no doubt Pierre is winning this battle. In fact, barring an injury or a steep decline in play, Pierre has all but solidified the CB3 role on the Steelers’ roster. That doesn’t mean Layne won’t make the team, but what is his role? Just a special teams player? Will he see the field on the outside in certain sub packages? A lot to unpack with this camp battle, and plenty of preseason left to hash it out.

Running Back

Kalen Ballage vs. Anthony McFarland vs. Jaylen Samuels vs. Benny Snell

Take a look at the pre-camp article below:

At this point, it seems as if McFarland is a lock to make the roster. It also seemed like a lock Snell would make the roster until an undisclosed injury has kept him sidelined for the first preseason game, and likely the second as well. Kalen Ballage has taken full advantage of the increased repetitions and has inserted himself into the discussion to make the team. Could they keep four running backs? They could, but it all depends on what they do with Trey Edmunds. Again, this is a camp battle which is far from decided.

Punter

Pressley Harvin III vs. Jordan Berry

Take a look at the pre-camp article below:

After the Hall of Fame game it seemed as if this camp battle was all but over. Harvin put on a masterful display, but fans should remember Berry hasn’t even had a chance to punt in live game action yet. The Steelers gave Harvin all the reps as both the punter and holder last Thursday night, and I’d expect they give Berry some opportunities vs. the Eagles this Thursday. Can’t rule this one over until the opposition at least gets a shot.

Tight End

Zach Gentry vs. Kevin Rader

Take a look at the pre-camp article below:

Remember when the tight end depth was one of the biggest weaknesses on the Steelers’ roster? Me too, and boy has that narrative changed throughout camp. Zach Gentry is stealing headlines with his transformed body and an overall improvement in his blocking. Kevin Rader made a name for himself as a blocker with his pancake block on Ballage’s touchdown run vs. Dallas. I doubt they keep four tight ends, but the Gentry vs. Rader battle is just heating up.

Defensive Line

Isaiah Buggs vs. Isaiahh Loudermilk vs. Henry Mondeaux vs. Carlos Davis

Take a look at the pre-camp article below:

The battle to round out the defensive line depth will likely go until the end of training camp. Who will be the outlier will come down to their overall body of work throughout camp and four preseason games. Loudermilk has been a pleasant surprise, and Davis has the look of the quality depth they have had the past few seasons. Buggs and Mondeaux might be battling it out for one spot.

Quarterback

Mason Rudolph vs. Dwayne Haskins vs. Joshua Dobbs

Take a look at the pre-camp article below:

Just like several other positions mentioned in this article, nothing has been decided after one preseason game. Some say Haskins could be the QB2, others say Rudolph has that job locked up. Dobbs continues to play well, but how does he play into the equation? The next three preseason games will be fun to watch as this battle unfolds.

What do you think of all these training camp battles? Who is winning, and who will be the odd man out? Let us know in the comment section below, and be sure to stay tuned to BTSC for the latest news and notes surrounding the Steelers as they prepare for the 2021 regular season.