In an ugly affair at Lincoln Financial Field, the Pittsburgh Steelers escaped with a 24–16 victory in their second preseason game to the Philadelphia Eagles.
This game saw several standouts on offense with few on the defensive side of the ball. From this group, here are the players on the Steelers who stood out the most.
Quarterback Dwayne Haskins -
The one thing that cannot be denied about Haskins, is his ability to throw the ball with velocity and accuracy.
After a dismal first series in the second quarter, he led the Steelers on an impressive touchdown drive on his next one. His second completion to receiver Cody White was the type of throw that only a first-round quality quarterback could execute. He made 5 of 5 completions for 42 yards on that drive. He opened the third quarter with a 10-play, 75 yard drive which culminated in a touchdown pass to receiver Anthony Johnson. When viewing Haskins, his ability to make completions, while using his mobility to escape pressure set him apart from Mason Rudolph. In total, he led three touchdown drives and finished with 16 completions for 161 passing yards.
Linebacker Jamir Jones -
In a game where few defensive players stood out, Jamir Jones was arguably their most effective defensive player.
In addition to recording the only sack of the game, his pressure on Eagles quarterback Nick Mullens lead to cornerback Justin Layne's interception. He was also an asset on special teams, accounting for two tackles. Jones has been quietly stacking impressive performances that could make one think that he could sneak onto the Steelers roster. Considering how poorly the linebackers performed in this game, this idea may not be too farfetched.
Running backs Anthony McFarland Jr. and Jaylen Samuels -
He may have only amassed 34 total rushing yards, but with each carry, Anthony McFarland Jr. showed a dimension to his game that was absent in his rookie year. McFarland Jr. displayed improved vision, patience, and strength. Over time, McFarland Jr. has become an integral piece of the offense, as he continues to get stronger each game he plays.
For Jaylen Samuels, though it seemed hard at first for him to make meaningful gains, he seemingly got stronger with each carry. Late in the third quarter, he would finish one of the drives with a hard-earned touchdown. For Samuels, this performance could serve as a building block, as he looks to solidify a spot on the Steelers roster.
Notable mentions:
Wide receiver Cody White,
Running back Tony-Brooks James,
Defensive lineman Isaiahh Loudermilk
Linebacker Quincy Roche