For some Steelers, last chance to leave impression

By Ralph N. Paulk

Perhaps no one scrutinizes young players vying for roster spots more than proven veterans.

Steelers linebacker Lawrence Timmons has observed with interest rookies and free agents who have expended a wealth of sweat equity trying to convince coach Mike Tomlin and general manager Kevin Colbert they are perfect fits.

For the most part, some players are simply numbers to Timmons. Their faces are still unfamiliar, but they are recognized for being diligent, determined and consistent.

“I really like 30 and 35,” Timmons said. “They have certainly pushed some of the older players, and I think that helps the team as a whole.”

Safety Robert Golden is No. 30, and cornerback Josh Victorian wears No. 35. They are long-shot free agents with an opportunity to enhance their odds at 7 p.m. Saturday with solid performances at Buffalo.

Coincidentally, 11-year safety Ryan Clark is impressed, too, with Golden and Victorian. He is convinced both are likely to be around Monday after the Steelers trim their roster to the league maximum 75.

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I'm sure a lot of these guys realize that tonight's performance certainly is their last opportunity to impress coaches. And with the nucleus of players we have already in the stable, it's harder to crack the 53 man roster. While some players certainly have earned it, others are going to struggle to make STs, and finally some will be content making the practice squad or getting swooped up by another team who needs their talents.

Regardless, tonight these guys on the cusp have got to leave it all on the field. This, in essence, is their SB.

With the starters occupying a majority of the first half, a lot of these young guys will have to prove themselves next week, not this week. Kind of sucks.