The Pittsburgh Steelers are set to open the season at home against the Atlanta Falcons, and their first depth chart of the Mike McCarthy era gives the clearest look yet at how the team is lining up for Week 1.
McCarthy’s first game as Steelers head coach also marks the start of a new chapter for the franchise, even if the full shape of that chapter is still coming into focus. The coach has kept some of the specifics close to the vest, but the team’s initial regular-season depth chart offers a few important clues about where things stand heading into Sunday.
On the offensive line, the first team now appears set. Spencer Anderson is listed at right guard, while veteran Dylan Cook gets the first shot at right tackle. That pushes rookie Max Iheanachor out of the immediate picture for now, though his name is still one to watch as the season moves along.
The depth chart also leaves room for some flexibility at a couple of spots. At tight end, both Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington are listed as first-team players, with the “or” designation making them co-starters to begin the season.
A similar setup shows up at cornerback. Jamel Dean is listed as one starter on the outside, while Joey Porter Jr. and Asante Samuel Jr. are both included as starters on the other side. That arrangement suggests the Steelers are preparing for more than one outcome with Porter Jr.’s contract situation, especially after the New England Patriots signed Christian Gonzalez to a record-breaking deal that could help shape the market for the Steelers’ top defensive back.
Samuel Jr.’s presence on the first depth chart also points to the possibility that he may not be ready or available for Week 1, while still serving as a sign of how well he has performed through training camp and the preseason.
Special teams brings another notable name to the top of the chart. Wide receiver Kaden Wetjen is listed as the primary punt returner and kick returner, a significant role for a fourth-round pick who was a surprise selection on the third day of the draft.
Wetjen had to earn that trust. McCarthy repeatedly challenged him during the preseason, pushing him to improve, and the rookie responded in the finale with a 45-yard punt return touchdown against the Buffalo Bills. That kind of finish appears to have helped lock in his spot as the Steelers head into the regular season.
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