It's that time of year again when the Pittsburgh Steelers begin reshaping their roster, and today marked a significant step in that direction with the signing of 13 players to Reserve/Future contracts. But here's where it gets interesting: these signings aren't just about filling spots—they're about injecting fresh talent and potential into the team's future. Let's dive into the details and meet the players who could be the next big names in Steelers history.
Long snapper Cal Adomitis is a hometown hero, hailing from Pittsburgh and playing for Central Catholic High School and the University of Pittsburgh. After stints with the Cincinnati Bengals and Philadelphia Eagles, Adomitis brings 49 games of NFL experience to the table. And this is the part most people miss: his local roots and proven track record make him a fan favorite in the making.
Defensive tackle Kyler Baugh is no stranger to perseverance. After going undrafted in 2024, he bounced between the New Orleans Saints, New York Giants, and Atlanta Falcons practice squads. His college career at the University of Minnesota and Houston Baptist showcases versatility, with 77 tackles, 7 tackles for a loss, and 4 sacks. Here’s a thought-provoking question: Can Baugh’s tenacity translate into a breakout role with the Steelers?
Receiver Cole Burgess, a Division III standout from SUNY Cortland, earned All-ECAC, All-Empire 8, and D3football.com All-Region honors. His 37 receptions for 816 yards and 11 touchdowns in his final season are impressive, but here’s the controversial take: Can a DIII player truly compete at the NFL level? Only time will tell.
Defensive end Anthony Goodlow has been on the fringes of the NFL, spending time with the Los Angeles Rams, Arizona Cardinals, and Steelers practice squads. His college career at Oklahoma State and Tulsa highlights his potential, with 42 tackles and 3 sacks. But here's where it gets controversial: Is Goodlow’s journey a testament to resilience or a sign of limited upside?
Defensive back Daequan Hardy, a former Buffalo Bills draft pick, brings speed and versatility to the Steelers. At Penn State, he recorded 60 tackles, 25 passes defensed, and 5 interceptions, while also excelling as a return specialist. And this is the part most people miss: His punt return touchdowns against UMass could foreshadow a dynamic special teams role in Pittsburgh.
Defensive back Jack Henderson is a journeyman, with stops at the Carolina Panthers, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and now the Steelers. His college career at Minnesota and Southeastern Louisiana showcases his adaptability, with 103 tackles and 7 sacks. Here’s a bold question: Can Henderson’s experience finally pay off in Pittsburgh?
Defensive end K.J. Henry, a former Washington Commanders draft pick, has bounced around the league but brings 22 tackles and 2.5 sacks to the table. His time at Clemson, where he recorded 13 sacks, hints at untapped potential. But here's where it gets controversial: Is Henry a late bloomer or a player who’s already peaked?
Receiver Max Hurleman is a special teams ace, known for his punt return prowess at Colgate and Notre Dame. His 49 punt returns for 353 yards highlight his value beyond receiving. And this is the part most people miss: Could Hurleman become the Steelers’ secret weapon on special teams?
Offensive guard Steven Jones is a standout from the University of Oregon, where he anchored an offensive line that allowed just five sacks in back-to-back seasons. Here’s a thought-provoking question: Can Jones’ college dominance translate to NFL success?
Running back Lew Nichols, a former Green Bay Packers draft pick, led the nation in rushing yards at Central Michigan in 2021. His time on the Steelers practice squad could be the stepping stone to a breakout role. But here's where it gets controversial: Is Nichols a one-hit wonder or a future star?
Receiver John Rhys Plumlee is a dual-threat talent, excelling as both a quarterback and receiver at Central Florida. His 5,838 passing yards and 26 receptions showcase his versatility. And this is the part most people miss: Could Plumlee’s unique skill set make him a wildcard in the Steelers’ offense?
Linebacker Julius Welschof, a native of Germany, brings international flavor to the Steelers. His time at Charlotte and Michigan highlights his potential, but injuries have slowed his progress. Here’s a bold question: Can Welschof overcome adversity and make an impact in the NFL?
Offensive tackle Aiden Williams, an undrafted free agent from Minnesota-Duluth, is a gritty competitor with 40 college games under his belt. His All-NSIC honors and role in a top-ranked rushing offense make him a player to watch. But here's where it gets controversial: Can a small-school standout like Williams crack the NFL lineup?
As the Steelers gear up for the future, these 13 players represent a mix of experience, potential, and resilience. Here’s the final thought-provoking question for you: Which of these signings do you think will make the biggest impact? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark some debate!
