Steelers' Unsung Heroes Are Making Their Opportunities Count

The Pittsburgh Steelers have received important contributions from their star players throughout the 2026 season, but winning football games also requires production from players who rarely receive the same attention. Last week in the win over the New Orleans Saints in Paris, Brandon Smith and Kevin Jobity Jr. showed how valuable those contributions can be, making plays in important moments and giving Pittsburgh more reasons to trust its depth.

Cameron Heyward recently highlighted both players on his Not Just Football podcast during his "Unsung Heroes" segment, pointing to their impact in Pittsburgh's recent game. While neither player typically commands the same spotlight as the team's established veterans, their performances demonstrated why every roster spot matters. Heyward specifically praised Jobity for contributing on defense and special teams, while Smith made the most of his opportunities in the passing game.

"Brandon Smith and Kevin Jobity made big-time plays in our game. Jobity played some snaps on the defensive line... then Brandon Smith on offense delivering some catches..." Heyward said.

Their contributions might not dominate the headlines, but they reflect something the Steelers need from their entire roster: players who are ready when their numbers are called. Jobity's performance stood out because of the different responsibilities he handled. The young defensive lineman played snaps on Pittsburgh's defensive front and also delivered an important tackle on kickoff coverage, showing his value beyond one position or phase of the game. For a player working to establish himself in the NFL, opportunities like these can make a significant difference. Defensive line snaps allow Jobity to gain experience against opposing offensive linemen, while special teams give him another avenue to contribute on game day. Being able to help in both areas makes a player more useful to the coaching staff, particularly when injuries put pressure on a team's depth.

Smith's contributions came on the opposite side of the ball, but his impact was just as important. Heyward praised the receiver for making catches at crucial opportunities, noting that players must take advantage when defenses leave them available.

"If they're not gonna cover you, you make them pay," Heyward said.

That message is particularly relevant for a Steelers offense that needs contributions throughout its receiving corps rather than relying exclusively on its biggest names. When opposing defenses focus their attention elsewhere, secondary options have to be ready to capitalize. Smith did exactly that, making a huge third-down catch on an Aaron Rodgers scramble drill, which led to a short field goal, giving the offense another player capable of making a defense pay for overlooking him. His opportunities may not always be consistent, but turning limited chances into productive plays can help build trust with the coaching staff.

For Pittsburgh, that kind of production matters. Defensive coordinators spend considerable time planning how to limit an opponent's primary weapons, and players further down the depth chart can become important when those plans leave openings elsewhere. The challenge for both Smith and Jobity will be maintaining that level of contribution as more opportunities arise. One strong performance can get a player's attention, but consistency is what ultimately earns a more permanent role.

Steelers Are Getting Valuable Contributions From Unexpected Places

Heyward's recognition carries weight because he understands what it takes to contribute in the NFL. As a veteran who has spent years playing at a high level, he knows that successful teams need more than a handful of stars. They need players who prepare, remain ready and execute when their opportunities arrive. Smith and Jobity have given Pittsburgh examples of that approach. 

The Steelers will need their established stars to continue delivering, but contributions from players like Smith and Jobity can help take pressure off the rest of the roster. If both continue making the most of their opportunities, Pittsburgh could benefit from having two more dependable options ready to step up when called upon.

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