5 Steelers on the roster bubble heading into training camp

With final cuts looming, here are 5 players on the roster bubble to watch closely at Steelers training camp in Latrobe.

Training camp is one of the best opportunities for players to prove why they belong on the 53-man roster — and the Steelers have their fair share of competitors on the roster bubble. In Pittsburgh, these five players are hanging onto a chance to make the final cut — and they’ll need a strong showing in Latrobe to keep their Steel City dreams alive.

CB Brandin Echols

Sep 9, 2024; Santa Clara, California, USA; New York Jets cornerback Brandin Echols (26) before the game against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

After the acquisition of star CB Jalen Ramsey, the newly signed Echols seems to be the odd man out on the Steelers secondary. The former Jets cornerback could definitely use a standout performance in Latrobe — as depth cornerbacks like James Pierre and Cory Trice Jr. hold the edge in familiarity on Steelers defense.

P Corliss Waitman

Dec 15, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers punter Corliss Waitman (8) against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

With the starting spot at punter likely up for grabs, it’s difficult to say whether Waitman or the now-healthy Cameron Johnston has the edge in the positional battle. Only one punter will make the final roster — and although Waitman showed flashes of brilliance, Johnston’s experience may prove more beneficial for Pittsburgh in the long run.

RB Cordarrelle Patterson

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Cordarrelle Patterson (84) runs for a touchdown against Detroit Lions during the first half of a preseason game at Ford Field in Detroit on Saturday, August 24, 2024.

The Steelers completely overhauled the running back room this offseason — and Patterson's receiving/return abilities may not be able to save him a spot on the Steelers roster 2025 — but a return to form at training camp may do the trick.

LB Mark Robinson

Dec 1, 2024; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Mark Robinson (93) walks off the field after the victory over the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

Robinson is also facing stiff competition to make the roster on a retooled defense, as the newly acquired Malik Harrison and the now-healthy Cole Holcomb could slam the door shut on any hopes of making the 2025 roster.

DE DeMarvin Leal

Aug 20, 2022; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end DeMarvin Leal (98) reacts after a sack against the Jacksonville Jaguars in the fourth quarter at TIAA Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports

Leal hasn’t quite lived up to expectations since being drafted by Pittsburgh with the 84th overall pick in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft. The fourth-year Steeler seems to be on the outside looking in after the 2025 NFL Draft and may need an almost perfect training camp outing to earn a spot on the 53-man roster.

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This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers training camp: 5 players to watch on the roster bubble

Category: Football