The situation continues to deteriorate for the Pittsburgh Steelers as Thanksgiving has arrived. It's a time to reflect on what people are thankful for in their lives, and for many in Pittsburgh, it's their blind hope in the Steelers. The team has continued to dash their hopes of a Super Bowl this year, but that doesn't mean everything has been negative surrounding the team.
Compiling a list of reasons not to be thankful for the Steelers would be far easier.
They have countless issues surrounding their team without a solution in sight. That said, there have been some bright spots amid the struggles. Certain players have performed well this season and deserve recognition. Fans should be thankful for these Steelers on Thanksgiving, as they have given it their all.
Pittsburgh Steelers have witnessed some players staying in the fight this season
Darnell Washington, TE
No one on the team has enjoyed more positive publicity than Darnell Washington. The massive tight end has produced strong results with the team this season. Many didn't see a role for the mountain of a player heading into the campaign, with Pat Freiermuth and Jonnu Smith leading him on the depth chart. Instead, Washington has been receiving more playing time with each passing week.
It's hard to tackle a 6-7 target who weighs over 300 pounds. He is a freak athlete who plays at the size of an offensive lineman but can run as fast as most tight ends in the NFL. Washington is fun to watch as he plays with toughness. He is a willing blocker, and his highlights of running with the ball are fun to see. He has gained the nickname "Mount Washington," and his growing legend will continue.
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Jalen Ramsey, S
Although Jalen Ramsey hasn’t quite lived up to expectations as a shutdown cornerback for the Steelers, there are positive takeaways. The veteran defensive back has begun adjusting his game to maintain his performance as he gets older. His competitive edge has made the transition from cornerback to safety remarkably smooth midseason.
One of Ramsey’s greatest contributions to the Steelers has been his tenacity.
He isn't afraid to mix it up and provide physicality to the game. He is one of the lone defensive players who remind fans of Pittsburgh defenses of the past. Ramsey might not be the same level of player he once was, but he is willing to do whatever it takes to help the team win football games.
Jaylen Warren, RB
He has flown under the radar, especially in recent weeks, but Jaylen Warren is a fantastic player for the Steelers. He routinely finds holes to run through when there is barely a crease to consider. No, he isn't elite at most things, but his overall game makes him a reliable back for the Steelers. When given opportunities, he has been Pittsburgh’s most consistent offensive weapon this season.
For one reason or another, the Steelers have force-fed Kenneth Gainwell over Warren at times. While Gainwell has shown strong play in spurts, Warren remains the top talent at the position. Pittsburgh’s coaching this season has been inconsistent, leading to questionable decisions that have deviated from Warren’s successful play. They need to rely more on him rather than turning their backs on him.