Four Surprises from the Steelers First Unofficial Depth Chart

This isn't exactly earth-shattering, but it is still eyebrow-raising. Some may have expected Jalen Ramsey to be listed as the starting free safety, even though he'll likely move around the defense. Instead, Ramsey is listed as the starting nickel corner, while Jaquan Brisker is the starting free safety.

Brisker projects well as a Cover 2 safety. He has more than enough range to handle the role and is also an excellent blitzer if defensive coordinator Patrick Graham chooses to deploy him that way. The question now is whether Brisker will be the long-term answer at free safety throughout the season.

Jaylen Warren listed as kick returner

Kaden Wetjen being listed as a kick returner isn't surprising. What stands out is Jaylen Warren being paired with him. Warren is also listed as the starting running back on the offensive depth chart, making the decision even more intriguing. Still, Warren and Rico Dowdle could form an effective backfield rotation that allows Warren to contribute on special teams.

Warren has the burst and big-play ability to be an effective kick returner. He's also a strong blocker, giving him another valuable trait in the return game. Even so, this seemed like a role that Kaleb Johnson or Eli Heidenreich could have filled.

Payton Wilson listed as starting inside linebacker

Wilson earning a starting spot shouldn't be surprising, but it still raises some questions. Cole Holcomb has received plenty of first-team reps alongside Patrick Queen during training camp. Is that simply situational for run-heavy packages? Or does this depth chart not accurately reflect Wilson's current standing? For now, that remains a mystery.

At the moment, Wilson appears to have done enough to possibly claim the starting job, at least on paper. He'll need to continue his development and take a significant step forward in a pivotal third season.

Rayshawn Jenkins listed well behind other safeties

Jenkins signed with the Steelers just last week, but you might have expected him to at least be the primary backup on the depth chart. The biggest takeaway, however, may simply be that this remains an unofficial depth chart. Most of these surprises are likely little more than window dressing at this stage.

If the depth chart does accurately reflect the current state of the roster, though, it's certainly interesting to see a veteran free-agent addition buried that far down the depth chart. That will likely change.