The Pittsburgh Steelers have made some under-the-radar signings recently that could surprise their fans in the upcoming 2023 NFL season. One of those signings, linebacker Nick Kwiatkoski, is a veteran special teams contributor who can also provide depth at inside linebacker. While he is unlikely to see time at linebacker, his experience can help new starters Elandon Roberts and Cole Holcomb, as well as second-year pro Mark Robinson.
Another addition who could make an impact in special teams is Tanner Muse. The former Seattle Seahawk has played both safety and linebacker, making him a hybrid player that fits well with the Steelers’ defense. Like Kwiatkoski, he is expected to provide depth at inside linebacker, but that could change depending on how training camp unfolds.
Safety depth is another area that the Steelers addressed this offseason by signing former Atlanta Falcons first-round pick Keanu Neal. Neal also started as a safety but has played inside linebacker before, making him a versatile player that can fit in various schemes. He should see a significant amount of playing time as a pseudo starter in 2023.
Cornerback Tre Sullivan is expected to start as the slot corner, while Patrick Peterson, Levi Wallace, and rookie Joey Porter Jr. will rotate in and out of specific secondary schemes. Meanwhile, outside linebacker Markus Golden will be a key player off the bench, providing a security blanket behind T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith.
Finally, Mason Rudolph has been brought back for another season as backup quarterback. Rudolph’s starting experience makes him a valuable backup player, but the real value comes from his familiarity with the NFL’s new emergency quarterback rule, which will see him dress on game days and be able to enter games as needed.
The Steelers also signed former XFL player Rashad Butler, who offers size that no other receiver on the roster currently has. While he may not see a lot of playing time right away, he could be used in red zone situations or create mismatches elsewhere on the field just by his presence.
All in all, these recent signings may not be big names, but they could end up surprising fans and making a significant impact on the Steelers’ success in the upcoming season.
