It is almost that time of year, Steelers Fans.
With this year's training camp quickly approaching, this is generally the time we focus on the undrafted players and predict which ones we believe have a chance of stealing a spot on the roster.
Admittedly, over the years, we have not had much success with our picks. For instance, last year, we had former Duke running back Mataeo Durant on our list. At that time, Durant was coming off a senior season where he rushed for 1,241 yards and scored 11 touchdowns. Not only did Durant not make the roster, he wasn't even given a spot on the practice squad. Last we checked, Durant was playing for the St. Louis Battlehawks of the XFL.
So, here we are again. This year's group of UDFAs is as intriguing as it has ever been. Yet, general manager Omar Khan has done such a great job building this roster that there may not be room for a UDFA. Nonetheless, here are the players we believe have a chance at making their NFL dreams come true.
Running Back Alfonzo Graham
This young man out of Morgan State gives fans Jaylen Warren vibes. An undersized running back with plenty of talent and plenty of courage. Although we have yet to see him in pads, he was easily one of the biggest standouts from OTAs back in June. The fact that he was willing to challenge arguably the best safety in the NFL, Minkah Fitzpatrick, tells you the type of backbone he has. Even though the outcome did not go in his favor, it is evident that he is the type of player who is unafraid to take on a big challenge. He has the right skillset to turn heads. If he is able to integrate it with his toughness, he has a good chance of stealing a roster spot.
EDGE David Perales
We featured Perales in a piece we did back in April. When you watch him on tape, he is truly a disruptive presence. His trademark performance in 2022 came against San Jose State, when he recorded four sacks and five tackles for loss in a dominant performance. Perhaps the better example of his work was against the USC Trojans, when he gave Heisman Trophy quarterback Caleb Williams fits. If one were to watch that tape, he was making frequent visits in the backfield against an offensive line that was Considered one of the best in college football at the time. Despite his size, Perales is a crafty and persistent pass rusher who can get the job done. Fans should prepare to hear his name often during the preseason.
Tight End Rodney Williams II
William was another name often mentioned during June OTAs. During his college career with Tennessee-Martin, Williams registered a total of 99 receptions, 1,217 receiving yards, and seven touchdowns while averaging 12.3 yards per reception. Last year, he was good enough in the preseason to beat out Jace Sternberger and Kevin Rader for a spot on the Steelers practice squad. Even with the addition of rookie Darnell Washington, there should still be room on the roster for a playmaking tight end like Williams.