DJ Thomas-Jones was an undrafted fullback coming out of the 2025 NFL Draft who signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He was off to a fantastic start at training camp, and many wondered if he would make the roster. He still had an uphill battle to overcome the odds, but Thomas-Jones was prepared to dethrone Connor Heyward for his spot on the depth chart. The writing was on the wall.
Unfortunately, Thomas-Jones suffered an injury that will keep him out for an extended period, according to The Athletic's Mid DeFabo, and Pittsburgh must now decide how to proceed. Heyward is in terrific shape regarding his job security after the undrafted rookie went down with an Achilles injury. Unless the Steelers sign another fullback or an unproven player emerges from the shadows, expect Heyward to be in a good place to make the team.
As the preseason unfolds, it could ultimately lead to some intriguing conclusions.
There are always jobs won and lost at this point in the NFL calendar. For the Steelers, training camp serves as a proving ground for players competing for roster spots. Those who fall short must seek opportunities elsewhere. With Arthur Smith as offensive coordinator, the tight end position has emerged as a key area of focus.
Pittsburgh Steelers latest training camp injury will give Connor Heyward shot at roster
Thomas-Jones appeared like a perfect fit into Smith's offense. They could use a reliable fullback who is natural to the position. His blocking prowess and ability to sneak out as a receiving threat were undervalued going into training camp. With Thomas-Jones now gone, Pittsburgh must rely on Heyward to show he can potentially take on that role by performing well this preseason.
Heyward remains on the roster bubble as training camp continues to push further. He had a problem when Thomas-Jones was on the field, but the pressure is off. If he can show an ability to provide snaps as a reliable fullback, Heyward will finally get a significant role on offense.
If he fails to accomplish that task, the Steelers could remove him from the roster in favor of an external option.
The three-year pro is in his fourth training camp with the Steelers. He has only mustered twelve starts during his career. With an abundance of talent at the tight end position, Heyward must prove that he can play multiple positions at a high level. The loss of Thomas-Jones impacts the roster this preseason, but the veteran has an opportunity to demonstrate his ability to address those concerns.
The Steelers' offensive coordinator covets tight ends and fullbacks. Smith loves using those positions to help his offense inflict pain in the run game. He has added some key pieces this offseason to help his offense hum. Jonnu Smith and Pat Freiermuth are massive targets for Aaron Rodgers, but the depth chart is impressive behind them. There could be endless opportunities.
