For weeks now, we’ve speculated about the Pittsburgh Steelers possibly showing interest in TE Michael Roberts. That idea was reignited after the Detroit Lions released him following a failed trade with the New England Patriots. While it was fair to question his health, it seems at least one team believes he can pass a physical. The Green Bay Packers reportedly have claimed him off waivers per this week from Dov Kleiman.
We’ll have to wait and see if Roberts sticks to the roster this time.
Pittsburgh clearly has some level of interest in adding to the tight end room after attempting to claim Jordan Leggett following his release by the New York Jets. The Steelers were one of several teams to put in a claim but he was awarded to Tampa Bay, highest in the league’s order.
It’s unknown if the Steelers or any other team besides Green Bay submitted a claim on Roberts. Pittsburgh showed interest in him coming out of Toledo and though he struggled in Detroit, profiled as a big-bodied blocker and red zone threat.
There’s currently minimal depth in the tight end room and even those on track to make the roster have question marks. Xavier Grimble has failed to ascend above the #3 spot for years, struggling with his consistency. Zach Gentry was drafted in the 5th round this year but, as the team admitted, is a raw player still learning the nuances of the position. Behind them, there isn’t much.
As Dave Bryan noted today, it wouldn’t be a shock in the least to see them add to the group at some point this summer. Colbert nearly annually makes at least on August trade and tight end would seem to be at the top of his list. Unfortunately, the options right now seem slim. Leggett is gone. So is Roberts. Buffalo’s Jason Croom was injured in OTAs while the Bills might not have Tyler Kroft for Week One. Dave has suggested the Philadelphia Eagles’ Richard Rodgers, who might make as much sense as anyone right now.
