Jerrod Johnson likely won't see the field when the Pittsburgh Steelers take on the Buffalo Bills this Saturday. The third preseason game is generally regarded by NFL coaches as the last chance to see the starters in action before the regular season begins. Johnson, currently the fourth quarterback on the depth chart, is too far out of the starting picture to earn playing time.
The Steelers clearly like what they have in Johnson, an athletic second-year quarterback out of Texas A&M, but, according to SB Nation's Behind The Steel Curtain, the Steelers are unlikely to keep him on the practice squad as a fourth quarterback. Reps are too precious to split among four players.
Pittsburgh has three other options: Release Johnson, trade him, or have him join the practice squad at another position.
The last scenario was put forth by Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette while talking to Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk on Thursday. The Steelers could stash Johnson as a wide receiver or tight end while he studies the offense, and use his athleticism to help the team prepare for upcoming opponents. Johnson could then come back next season and compete once again for a roster spot at quarterback.
While intriguing, there hasn't been any indication that Johnson or the Steelers are in favor of any kind of position switch. Instead, expect to see Johnson play most, if not all, of the team's final preseason game as a showcase to other franchises of his talents.
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