The Pittsburgh Steelers lost 17-14 to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in their preseason matchup at Acrisure Stadium, but the coaching staff focused on individual performances rather than the final score. Both teams rested several key players for Saturday’s game.
Head coach Mike Tomlin said he was encouraged by the play of second-year wide receiver Roman Wilson, who made a 42-yard catch against Jamel Dean and a 30-yard catch-and-run against Kendal Vidor before exiting after the first quarter. Wilson has now caught four passes for 96 yards over about 40 offensive snaps this preseason. Last season, injuries limited him to just five offensive snaps.
“He’s had a good camp and he’s backed that up with some quality in-stadium play,” Tomlin said of Wilson. “(I) feel good about the overall trajectory of him. We’ve got another game in a couple of more (days) and that time is critical for a young guy, so he has to keep his foot on the gas and keep working.”
Tomlin added that while Wilson is progressing, “the job isn’t complete.” The team drafted Wilson in the third round in 2024 with high expectations, but injuries slowed his start.
First-round pick Derrick Harmon also drew praise after sacking Bucs quarterback Kyle Trask early in the second quarter and helping anchor a run defense that allowed just 38 rushing yards on 15 carries during the first half. Running back Kaleb Johnson improved from last week’s performance by rushing for 50 yards on 11 carries and catching one pass for nine yards.
“I thought we saw more of his talents all around,” Tomlin said regarding Johnson’s showing.
The Steelers struggled offensively at times, converting only two of twelve third downs and turning over the ball three times. Teddy Bridgewater led Tampa Bay to an early lead following some Pittsburgh mistakes before the defense held firm.
Pittsburgh’s starting offensive line continued to perform well with minimal penalties, but backups have struggled with pre-snap errors and holding calls.
Special teams competition remains close between punters Cameron Johnston and Waitman, both considered among the league’s best options according to internal assessments. Deciding which player to retain will be difficult as both are effective punters and holders.
Linebacker Cole Holcomb has returned strongly from injury, joined by Payton Wilson, Malik Harrison, Mark Robinson, and Carson Bruener as standout performers during training camp. Patrick Queen has yet to make his preseason debut.
With three weeks until the regular season begins, Tomlin appears likely to rest veterans again in hopes of avoiding injuries ahead of an early bye week and a demanding schedule later in the year.
The Steelers’ coverage units have been solid under new kickoff rules intended to encourage more returns. Kaleb Johnson may become a key returner alongside Kenneth Gainwell. Wide receiver Calvin Austin III has been used as punt returner previously but could see reduced special teams action if his role expands on offense. Ke’Shawn Williams is also competing for a roster spot as a return specialist after solid preseason showings.
Receiver Brandon Johnson boosted his chances by drawing a pass interference penalty and catching a touchdown pass Saturday night before making a tackle on special teams during the ensuing kickoff—demonstrating versatility valued by coaches evaluating roster spots.
