Steelers rumors: 3 veterans who could be cut after 2023 NFL Draft

The Pittsburgh Steelers draft class was universally praised by scouts and pundits alike. While that’s great for the organization, some veteran players have a target on their back.

The Steelers draft class — at least on the surface — appears to be one of their best in recent memory. Pittsburgh traded up for Broderick Jones, and then withstood the test of impressive trade offers and instead took Joey Porter Jr. Beyond that, the Steelers filled key needs on the offensive line and defensive side of the football.

It went about as well as one could hope. For a better picture, here is the complete Pittsburgh draft class:

• Broderick Jones – Offensive Tackle – Round 1
• Joey Porter Jr. – Cornerback – Round 2
• Keeanu Benton – Defensive Lineman – Second Round
• Darnell Washington – Tight End – Third Round
• Nick Herbig – Linebacker – Fourth Round
• Cory Trice Jr. – Defensive Back – Seventh Round
• Spencer Anderson – Offensive Lineman – Seventh Round

After the draft, Pittsburgh remained in the undrafted free agent market, as well, stealing some of the best players that other teams left off their draft boards.

So, what does all this mean for the roster makeup? That’ll all work itself out in offseason minicamp and training camp, but for now these veteran players are on the hot seat.

Steelers rumors: Zach Gentry is on the hot seat

Zach Gentry is a worthwhile blocking tight end on the Pittsburgh roster, and pairs nicely with Pat Freiermuth. However, if the Steelers proved anything in the NFL Draft, it’s that they aren’t happy with their tight end group as is.

That’s why they drafted Darnell Washington out of Georgia. Washington was considered one of the more underrated tight end prospects in this class, and he’s happy to run routes or run block when necessary. Washington is reunited with Georgia teammates Broderick Jones and George Pickens.

“The emotion is crazy. This is a dream come true,” said Washington. “Not only that, it comes with perks playing with my old teammate, George (Pickens) and Broderick Jones being on the same team. It’s hard for me to speak right now because of how happy I am. Just to be a Steeler. A great franchise. To become a part of that is amazing.

Omar Khan was impressed with Washington’s versatility during the pre-draft process, suggesting that the UGA product is “6-foot-7 and can move, you don’t see that often.” He’s going to help Pittsburgh in so many facets if he can receive the necessary playing time, and should form a solid 1-2 punch with Freiermuth.

What does that mean for Gentry? Well, that’s up to Khan and Co.