The information to begin examining training camp battles is here now that the rosters are set. We will look through the Pittsburgh Steelers roster and predict who will make the team. Also, we will see where the team stands in terms of playing time for the 2016 season and beyond. Reasons to hold onto these lower-end players vary. Some may be able to make a future impact as players come and go via free agency. This edition will look at the free safety position. The Steelers should carry five safeties overall.
Pittsburgh Steelers Free Safety Projection
1. Mike Mitchell: If there is any spot in the entire Steelers secondary with a position starter locked in, it is Mitchell at free safety. He had an excellent 2015 after a tough start in his first season in Pittsburgh that led to off-season surgery. His ability in coverage looked a lot better and he is a nice blend of a centerfielder and a heavy hitter. He is signed on for the next two seasons and the Steelers are hoping to bring him help by then.
2. Robert Golden: The Steelers are dealing with the situation of having Golden be their potential starting strong safety and backup free safety. He is also the special teams captain. It is no surprise that the Steelers locked him into a three-year deal this off-season. Golden was brought in to be a backup free safety, but his only three NFL starts have been at strong safety. He is the only safety other than Mitchell on the roster with any starter experience, which speaks to where the big weakness is on this unit. Golden will be seeing the field more than ever before, so his 2016 season will one to watch.
3. Ross Ventrone: Ventrone will be on the border of being cut this off-season. However, the local product from Chartiers Valley should end up on the team for the third straight year when things are said and done. Ventrone has only been active for 15 games in the past two years. However, he does bring value to the table through his special teams abilities. With Golden getting defensive snaps, the team is going to need more depth and help in both special teams and at the safety position. With Ventrone being familiar with the team, he should be able to make the squad.
Missed the Cut
If anyone were to push Ventrone off of the roster, it would be Jordan Dangerfield. Dangerfield has been on and off the roster since 2014, mostly being on the practice squad. He brings special teams ability and can play both safety spots. Jacob Hagen will compete as well. He is an undrafted rookie free agent from Liberty. While the Steelers have problems at safety, it seems unlikely that he is the solution or that he can beat out Dangerfield and Ventrone.
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