5 takeaways from the Steelers’ 17-14 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Pittsburgh Steelers lost their second preseason game 17-14 to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at home on Saturday. While rookies Derrick Harmon and Kaleb Johnson faced criticism after their NFL debuts the previous week, both showed improvement in this game.

Defensive lineman Derrick Harmon, who had no stats against Jacksonville, recorded a sack and a tackle for loss against Tampa Bay. His sack featured a powerful bull rush that drove a Buccaneers guard into the quarterback, drawing comparisons to Cam Heyward. However, he also missed a tackle while defending the run, highlighting an area for development.

Running back Kaleb Johnson started slowly but gained momentum, finishing with 11 carries for 50 yards (4.5 yards per carry), a significant improvement over his previous performance (8 carries for 20 yards, 2.5 avg). He displayed power with a stiff arm and showed burst to reach the second level of the defense. While acknowledging he needs work running between tackles against starters, the performance was a positive step.

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin expressed appreciation for both rookies' efforts, noting that "Second time stepping into a stadium, you see more of their talents." He emphasized expecting more talent to show as they acclimate to the NFL.

Wide receiver Scotty Miller strengthened his case for a roster spot, catching both his targets for 38 yards while running with the first team ahead of veteran Robert Woods. Following a solid performance the previous week (4 catches, 47 yards) and positive training camp reports, Miller's speed and strong rapport with quarterback Aaron Rodgers, developed during the offseason, make him appear secure as a top-five receiver on the roster. His 2020 production with Tom Brady suggests potential for a connection with Rodgers.

While the Steelers could still seek a WR2 candidate, rookie Roman Wilson has also impressed, stacking two good preseason performances in a row and giving Pittsburgh reason to consider him an offensive contributor in 2025.