Steelers training-camp standouts who could play crucial roles

The Pittsburgh Steelers have several position battles taking shape as training camp continues. While established starters make up much of the roster, a few players have emerged throughout camp and could earn significant roles this season.

Wide receiver Roman Wilson, cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. and offensive tackle Max Iheanachor have each gotten off to impressive starts. It is still early, but their performances are encouraging. If they continue to improve down the stretch of camp and carry that momentum into September, all three could play crucial roles for Pittsburgh this season.

Roman Wilson

Wilson entered training camp battling rookie Germie Bernard for the Steelers No. 3 receiver job, and he has made a strong case for the role.

Wilson has consistently impressed throughout camp, including making plays with the first-team offense. His speed remains one of his biggest strengths. The former Michigan receiver ran a 4.39-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine and has the quickness to create separation and get open underneath.

Another encouraging development has been Wilson's growing relationship with Aaron Rodgers. The two have become closer off the field, and now entering their second season together, that familiarity should help them build even stronger chemistry on the field. For a receiver trying to earn a larger role, gaining Rodgers trust could go a long way.

Wilson's skill set could make him an ideal complement to DK Metcalf and Michael Pittman Jr. Pittsburgh already has two big, physical receivers capable of winning on the outside. Wilson offers something different with his speed, separation and ability to operate from the slot.

Bernard will continue pushing him for playing time, but if Wilson carries his strong camp into the season, he could carve out a valuable role as Pittsburgh's No. 3 receiver.

Asante Samuel Jr.

Samuel has consistently made plays on the ball and held his own against Pittsburgh's top receivers. His impressive camp has even put him in the discussion for the No. 2 cornerback job.

Veteran Jamel Dean's experience still makes him the likely starter opposite Joey Porter Jr., but Samuel does not necessarily need to win that battle to play a significant role. He could also become Pittsburgh's starting nickel cornerback if Jalen Ramsey plays at safety, which would give defensive coordinator Patrick Graham more flexibility with his secondary.

Samuel playing in the slot could also allow Ramsey to spend more time being a strict ball hawk. More importantly, Samuel gives Pittsburgh quality insurance on the outside. If Porter or Dean miss time, Samuel has the talent and experience to step in and provide reliable coverage.

Max Iheanachor

Despite currently dealing with an injury, Iheanachor has been another impressive performer early in camp.

The Steelers selected the 6-foot-6, 321-pound tackle No. 21 overall out of Arizona State, and he has already shown why Pittsburgh invested a first-round pick in him. Iheanachor has held his own throughout camp and has won reps against proven pass rushers, including Alex Highsmith.

He is currently out for an undetermined amount of time with an injury, but Iheanachor is firmly pushing veteran Dylan Cook for the starting right tackle job.

His development could be especially important for Rodgers. At this stage of Rodgers' career, giving him enough time in the pocket will be crucial to Pittsburgh's offense. Right tackle is an important part of that equation, and Iheanachor's ability in pass protection could make a major difference.

If Iheanachor can return to the field and continue building on his strong start to camp, he has a legitimate opportunity to earn the starting job and become a crucial piece of the Steelers' offensive line.