Steelers to sit Aaron Rodgers, T.J. Watt & more vs. Jaguars in the 2024 preseason opener. See which backups will shine in this crucial roster battle.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The sun set on the final public practice of the 2025 Steelers Training Camp Thursday, and with it, the focus shifted sharply from drills to live-action evaluation. Head Coach Mike Tomlin made it clear that Saturday's preseason opener against the Jacksonville Jaguars will be an audition, not a dress rehearsal, announcing that a slew of top-tier starters—including QB Aaron Rodgers, WR DK Metcalf, and OLB T.J. Watt—will be spectators.
'If you're in uniform, you're prepared to play throughout the course of the game.' - Mike Tomlin
Coach Tomlin's press conference confirmed what many suspected: the team's biggest names will be kept in bubble wrap for the preseason opener. Joining Rodgers, Metcalf, and Watt on the sidelines will be TEs Jonnu Smith and Pat Freiermuth, and OL Isaac Seumalo, among a total of 20 players ruled out. Tomlin stressed the decision is about managing player health and prioritizing execution over game-planning for the opponent. This opens the door wide for backups and roster hopefuls to get significant snaps. The team even signed QB Logan Woodside, a clear move to ensure they have enough arms to get through the game with Rodgers resting.
As camp concluded, the tale of two defensive players perfectly illustrates the stakes. Gerry Dulac of the Post-Gazette crowned new cornerback Jalen Ramsey the undisputed MVP of camp, lauding his versatility and immediate, game-changing impact. On the other end of the spectrum is defensive lineman DeMarvin Leal. After a lackluster camp and the rise of rookie Jack Sawyer, Leal finds himself squarely on the roster bubble. Returning from a 2024 neck injury, Leal is expected to see heavy playing time against the Jaguars in what could be his last chance to prove he belongs on the 53-man roster.
While the focus was on who won't be playing Saturday, the team was busy adding players who will be. The Steelers announced the signings of QB Logan Woodside, long snapper Tucker Addington, and veteran offensive guard Andrus Peat, bolstering depth at key positions. Their arrival coincided with the final public practice, which saw a welcome sight for the defensive line: Derrick Harmon returned to practice in full uniform after missing time. His return, coupled with the new additions, shows the front office is constantly churning the bottom of the roster as the evaluation process intensifies.
With the final open practice at Saint Vincent in the books, the evaluation phase enters its most critical stage. Saturday's game against the Jaguars isn't about the final score; it's about individual futures. For players like DeMarvin Leal, it's a chance at survival. For rookies and backups, it's the opportunity of a lifetime. The lights are about to come on, and we're about to see who is ready for their close-up.
