Pittsburgh Review

The following questions and answers were featured in the August 27 edition of "Asked and Answered."

Todd Furst from Allentown, PA, inquired about Justin Fields potentially playing a "Slash" role similar to Kordell Stewart. The response clarified that Fields will indeed start the season as the No. 2 quarterback and may be used in packages to leverage his skills, but he won't play a different position on offense like Stewart did.

William Young from Baden, PA, asked if John Rhys Plumlee's versatility could help him make the practice squad. The answer highlighted Plumlee's potential but noted he needs further development before securing a spot on the 53-man roster.

Chris Hann from Sarasota, FL, suggested moving Nick Herbig to inside linebacker. The response detailed Chad Brown's career path and explained why Herbig should remain at outside linebacker given the current roster composition.

Zeke Watson from Bethlehem, PA, questioned Dez Fitzpatrick's chances of making the final roster after his preseason performance. It was noted that Fitzpatrick’s contributions could earn him either a spot on the 53-man roster or an offer for the practice squad.

Roy Latimer from Roswell, NM, wondered why punters don't aim more kicks out of bounds. The answer explained that preseason games are used to evaluate punt coverage teams.

Glaucio Cafalchio from Taubaté, SP, Brazil expressed concerns about the offensive line's progress. The response advised patience with young players and emphasized that preseason performance isn't always indicative of regular-season success.

Lou Mann from Ashkelon, Israel commented on Mark Robinson’s improvement at linebacker. It was stated that Robinson is on the bubble for making the final roster depending on how many inside linebackers are kept.

Mark Valenzia from Bartlett, IL asked if injury settlements count against the salary cap. The simple answer was yes.

Javier Perez from Jalisco, Mexico asked about Steelers' rivalries outside their division. It was noted that Dallas is considered their main NFC rival due to past Super Bowl matchups while Oakland (Raiders) is seen as a significant non-division AFC rival because of frequent clashes in the 1970s.

Marlin Cobb from Aliquippa, PA voiced frustration over wide receiver discussions and suggested sticking with current players. It was acknowledged this might indeed be what happens.

Todd McCandless from Wildwood, MO asked about Bill Cowher’s preseason records compared to regular season readiness. It was revealed that during Cowher’s tenure with seven losing preseasons; two resulted in winning September records while four ended up .500 and one had a losing record.