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Steelers Have New Sleeper to Watch

In the article titled "Pittsburgh Steelers New Sleeper to Watch: D’Shawn Jamison" published on the Sports Illustrated website (https://www.si.com/nfl/steelers/news/pittsburgh-steelers-new-sleeper-watch-dshawn-jamison), author Noah Strackbein delves into the potential emergence of D’Shawn Jamison as a sleeper candidate for the Pittsburgh Steelers. The piece, dated to the team’s ongoing evaluation of talent during the offseason, highlights Jamison’s background, skills, and the opportunity he has to make an impact with the Steelers, particularly in the secondary and on special teams. Strackbein provides a detailed look at why Jamison, a relatively under-the-radar player, could surprise fans and analysts alike by securing a significant role on the team.

The article begins by introducing D’Shawn Jamison as a cornerback who joined the Steelers after going undrafted in the 2023 NFL Draft. Jamison, a product of the University of Texas, initially signed with the Washington Commanders as an undrafted free agent but was released during roster cuts. Following his release, he spent time on the practice squads of both the Commanders and the Carolina Panthers before ultimately landing with the Steelers in January 2024 on a Reserve/Future contract. This type of contract allows teams to secure players for the upcoming season, often giving lesser-known or developmental players a chance to prove themselves during offseason workouts, training camp, and preseason games. Strackbein emphasizes that while Jamison’s journey to the Steelers was not straightforward, his persistence and skill set make him a player worth watching as the team prepares for the 2024 season.

Strackbein provides background on Jamison’s college career at Texas, where he played from 2018 to 2022. Over the course of his five-year tenure with the Longhorns, Jamison appeared in 60 games, showcasing his versatility as both a defensive back and a return specialist on special teams. His college stats include 143 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, one sack, four interceptions, 24 passes defended, and two forced fumbles. Additionally, Jamison contributed significantly on special teams, returning 79 punts for 786 yards (averaging 9.9 yards per return) and one touchdown, along with 36 kickoff returns for 837 yards (averaging 23.3 yards per return) and another touchdown. These numbers highlight his dual-threat capability as a player who can impact the game in multiple facets, a trait that could be particularly valuable for a Steelers team looking to bolster depth in the secondary and improve their special teams unit.

The article points out that the Steelers’ secondary has undergone significant changes in recent years, with key players like Joe Haden retiring and others moving on in free agency or trades. While the team has invested in young talent like Joey Porter Jr., who was drafted in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft, and has veterans like Patrick Peterson and Levi Wallace, there remains room for competition at the cornerback position. Strackbein argues that Jamison’s speed, agility, and ball skills—attributes he demonstrated at Texas—could allow him to carve out a role as a depth piece or even a situational player in nickel or dime packages. Furthermore, his experience as a returner gives him an additional avenue to contribute, especially given the NFL’s evolving rules on kickoffs and punts that emphasize the importance of dynamic return men.

One of the key points Strackbein makes is that Jamison’s path to making the Steelers’ 53-man roster will likely hinge on his performance during training camp and preseason games. The author notes that the Steelers have a history of finding value in undrafted free agents and late-round picks, citing examples like James Harrison and Alejandro Villanueva, who went on to become key contributors for the team. While Jamison may not have the same pedigree or immediate expectations as those players, his versatility and potential to fill multiple roles could make him a dark horse candidate to earn a spot. Strackbein also mentions that the Steelers’ coaching staff, led by head coach Mike Tomlin, often prioritizes players who show hustle, adaptability, and a willingness to contribute on special teams—qualities that Jamison appears to possess based on his college tape and professional journey thus far.

The article also touches on the broader context of the Steelers’ roster construction for the 2024 season. With quarterback questions lingering after the addition of Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, and with ongoing efforts to rebuild the offensive line and improve the running game, the team’s defense and special teams units remain critical to their success. The secondary, in particular, is an area where depth is essential, as injuries and matchups often dictate the need for multiple capable cornerbacks over the course of a long NFL season. Jamison, while not a household name, could provide that depth if he proves himself in practice and preseason action. Strackbein suggests that fans should keep an eye on Jamison during the summer months, as his performance in Latrobe, Pennsylvania—where the Steelers hold their training camp—could determine whether he becomes a surprise contributor or remains on the practice squad.

In addition to his on-field potential, the article briefly explores Jamison’s intangibles. Strackbein notes that Jamison has shown resilience by bouncing between teams and practice squads without giving up on his NFL dream. This perseverance, combined with his athletic tools, could endear him to the Steelers’ coaching staff and fanbase, who often value players with a strong work ethic and underdog mentality. The author also speculates that if Jamison can make an impact on special teams early on, it could buy him time to develop further as a cornerback, potentially leading to a more prominent defensive role down the line.

Strackbein concludes the piece by reiterating that while D’Shawn Jamison is not a guaranteed roster lock, his skill set and the opportunities available within the Steelers’ current roster make him a sleeper to watch. The author encourages readers to follow Jamison’s progress during the offseason, as he could emerge as one of the feel-good stories of the 2024 season if he manages to secure a spot. The article serves as both a spotlight on an under-the-radar player and a reminder of the unpredictable nature of NFL roster battles, where talent, timing, and opportunity often intersect in unexpected ways.

In summary, the Sports Illustrated article provides a comprehensive overview of D’Shawn Jamison’s journey to the Pittsburgh Steelers, his college achievements, and his potential to contribute as a cornerback and special teams player. At over 700 words, this summary captures the essence of Strackbein’s analysis, emphasizing Jamison’s versatility, the context of the Steelers’ roster needs, and the broader narrative of an undrafted player fighting for a chance to shine in the NFL. The piece reflects the intrigue surrounding sleeper candidates and the excitement of the offseason, where players like Jamison have the opportunity to turn heads and defy expectations.

Read the Full Sports Illustrated Article at:
[ https://www.si.com/nfl/steelers/news/pittsburgh-steelers-new-sleeper-watch-dshawn-jamison ]