Three must-watch players in Steelers' first preseason game

The Steelers take on the Buccaneers in their first preseason action of the 2023 season on Friday night. Here are three must-watch players for Pittsburgh.

Broderick Jones, left tackle

The Steelers traded up in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft to jump the tackle-needy Jets and land Jones. Now, he must prove Pittsburgh right for doing so.

Jones isn't being handed the starting job, however. There is a competition between him and Dan Moore Jr., who allowed seven sacks a season ago. If Moore Jr. runs with the first-team offense, which is expected, Jones will serve as the second-team's blindside blocker. Against less talented players, he should dominate. If he doesn't, he may have the Steelers beginning to rethink things.

Calvin Austin III, wide receiver

Austin III is one of Pittsburgh's biggest mysteries. After being drafted in the fourth round last year, he suffered a foot injury in training camp that ended his rookie season before it even started. Austin III's shown flashes of his 4.32-second 40-yard dash speed in training camp, and he finally gets to showcase it in-game action.

He won't just get to show off his speed as a receiver either. Austin III is listed as the team's primary kick and punt returner. If he can continue making plays in the stadium as he has been in camp, he could be on his way to being named the starting slot receiver as well.

Kendrick Green, fullback

Green has been the talk of the town since the Steelers began experimenting with a position change for him. Once serving as the team's starting center, Green has been taking snaps at fullback in training camp and playing well.

Head coach Mike Tomlin confirmed he would get some opportunities at the position in preseason and fans are excited to see Pittsburgh's newest fan-favorite player. If Green can find success at his new position, he may just save his career as some believe he could be cut when the roster trims down to 53 at the end of August.