Pittsburgh Steelers: Isaac Redman, Dennis Dixon, Questions Still Remain
When the Pittsburgh Steelers opened camp at the end of July, there were considerably more questions than answers. The Steelers were a team without a quarterback for the first quarter of the season, with depth issues at running back and wide receiver, and with an offensive line in disarray.
After a grueling camp and two preseason games, there have been surprises, disappointments, and a few answers or partial answers. With more preseason action to go, the Steelers still have time to sort out the rest.
Here's a look at what we've learned so far.
Rockin' Redman
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ISAAC REDMAN
Perhaps no one has been more impressive in two preseason games than Isaac Redman. In two preseason games, he has 94 yards and two touchdowns on 21 carries. Redman has looked like a star in the making in much the same way as Willie Parker did in 2004.
It's increasingly unlikely that Redman will be among the Steelers' cuts as he was in 2009. His work this preseason, combined with the lack of depth behind feature back Rashard Mendenhall, has all but sewn up his spot on the roster.
The Steelers could use Redman in goal line situations and also, if he improves his receiving skills, as a third down option. Current third down back Mewelde Moore lacks the ball-carrying skills that Redman exhibits. If Redman can show he can be a receiving threat, Moore's days might be numbered.
Rookie Receivers
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ANTONIO BROWN
Brown has proven to be the threat the Steelers believed him to be when they took him in the draft. In two games, he's amassed 96 yards and one touchdown on 5 catches. His route running has been better than expected and his breakaway speed allows the Steelers to utilize the deep passing game that was so successful last season.
Brown is part of a crowded wide receiving corps, but his ability as a return man also may guarantee him a roster spot. He's certainly set himself apart so far.
EMMANUEL SANDERS
Sanders doesn't own the same impressive numbers as Brown, but he has also made a good case for a roster spot based upon his route running and sure hands.
The Steelers, who've suffered through two seasons of Limas Sweed dropping key passes, place a great value on the ability to catch balls thrown perfectly. Sanders has shown he can be a threat in the passing game. He could catch on as the fifth receiver if his steady play continues.
It would be interesting to see Sanders tried in return situations, although I'm not certain that's how the Steelers plan to utilize his talents.
Disappointing Dwyer
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JONATHAN DWYER
First, Dwyer broke a Mike Tomlin rule by showing up to camp out of shape. Then he started becoming injury prone, possibly due to his poor conditioning. Then he got hurt again during the first preseason game.
His statistical line, six carries for eight yards, is underwhelming, particularly against other rookies. He's been vastly outplayed by Isaac Redman and even perennial camp backup Justin Vincent.
As a sixth round pick, Dwyer's spot on the roster is by no means guaranteed, and he has done nothing to endear himself to the coaching staff. If he does not find his way back onto the field for the final two preseason contests, he will likely be in street clothes when the season opens.
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Quarterback Controversy
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BYRON LEFTWICH
It is plainly obvious that the Steelers want Leftwich to open the season as the starter. They value his experience greatly. He's had an up and down preseason so far, amassing 138 yards and a touchdown in two contests.
In the first, he looked uncomfortable and shaky behind an offensive line that played a usual hot and cold game. His long windup didn't play very well behind a line that struggles to hold up against the rush. Leftwich is not to be confused with mobility in any sense, a deficit that showed up greatly against Detroit.
Against an arguably better unit in New York, Leftwich looked much better, completing three of six passes for 95 yards and a scoring pass. While he was playing against backups, the results were much more encouraging.
DENNIS DIXON
With Dixon, however, the Steelers have a truly athletic player. Not only does Dixon possess a good arm, he also is able to make plays with his feet.
Dixon showed in his first contest that he could capitalize on aggressive defenses by running through and around them. He has accuracy when throwing on the run too, something that cannot be overlooked by a team used to having the steady playmaking of Ben Roethlisberger guiding it.
Dixon is raw and still struggles at reading a defense. But he has shown a knack for overcoming that with pure athletics. While he may not start, it's likely he will see some time when the season opens. To not use his skill would be to waste an opportunity to keep defenses off balance.
Old Faces Returning To Battle
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Now, let's check in on our veterans returning to action in Black and Gold:
TROY POLAMALU
Polamalu looks to be returning to form. He's shown no lingering effects of his injury and seems poised for a successful comeback campaign. The Steelers would be wise to limit his workload during the preseason and spell him during the regular season at times if his knee begins to act up again.
AARON SMITH
Smith also is showing no ill effects of his injury. He's likely to anchor the defensive line for another year, although Ziggy Hood's stellar preseason performance indicates that the team will be able to spell him effectively as the year progresses.
ANTWAAN RANDLE EL
Randle El has returned to the Steelers after years in Washington. He still seems dangerous, although he has definitely lost a step from the old days. Randle El has been outplayed so far by rookies Emmanuel Sanders and Antonio Brown, but will still likely contribute from the slot and possibly in the return game.
LARRY FOOTE
Foote has looked slower since his return. He has been beaten to the outside by running backs and also has looked rusty in Dick LeBeau's defense. It will be interesting to see how the final two weeks play out for Foote, who now seems to be fighting for a roster spot.
BRYANT MCFADDEN
It would appear that the return of McFadden has shored up a weak secondary. His experience and ability will be valuable as youngsters Keenan Lewis, Joe Burnett, and Crezdon Butler grow into the system. So far, he's been the best of the players re-acquired in offseason deals.
What To Watch for
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While a lot of questions are starting to receive answers, there are still plenty of reasons to watch the rest of the preseason action.
ROETHLISBERGER'S WORKLOAD
If Ben Roethlisberger is to shake as much rust as possible before the season begins, he will need more than a handful of series. His must be balanced with both Dennis Dixon and Byron Leftwich, who will play in his stead until his suspension is lifted. It will be interesting to see how much time he gets and how he performs.
CORNERBACK DEPTH
The Steelers have some open roster spots in the secondary. Second year players Keenan Lewis and Joe Burnett have showed progress, and rookie Crezdon Butler has shown talent. It will be interesting to see how the depth chart falls behind Bryant McFadden and Ike Taylor. William Gay has not played much, and his spot is in doubt after such a poor showing last season and thus far in the preseason.
POSITION BATTLES
While we are likely to see Byron Leftwich open at quarterback, the roles assigned to Isaac Redman and Mewelde Moore at running back will be interesting. Also, the order of depth for the receivers has yet to be determined behind starters Hines Ward and Mike Wallace. Antonio Brown may be playing his way into the third spot.
RETURN GAME ROSTER BATTLES
Brown and Antwaan Randle El can return kicks and play a steady game at receiver. Incumbent return man Stefan Logan has looked out of sorts and is also a one dimensional player at a position with stiff competition. It would not be a surprise to see the Steelers part ways with Logan should Brown show he could handle the job full time.
FINAL CUTS
The final cuts, which come near the eve of the regular season, are always the hardest and usually full of more than a few surprises. Last year, the surprise cut was Isaac Redman. Who will it be this season? The only way to find out is to stay tuned.
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