The Steelers released their initial depth chart for the season today. I say initial because the Steelers may not be done with roster moves and we could see some further changes. As of today though, this is how the team is shaped:

Steelers' Week 1 depth chart – rookies making moves. Third-rounder Javon Hargrave the… https://t.co/ozhqZQyTLo pic.twitter.com/PtwyMPY40u

— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) September 5, 2016

A depth chart never tells a complete story and should never be taken as hard facts. However, there are still some things that caught my eye…

Eli Rogers listed as wide receiver #5.

There had been recent reports that Rogers could start as the teams slot receiver this year, making it surprising seeing him listed behind both Sammie Coates and Darrius Heyward-Bey. Rogers could still easily be the starting slot receiver, so I guess we’ll have to wait till game-time to find out.

B.J. Finney listed as the #3 center and #4 guard.

I thought Finney had played well enough to jump Chirs Hubbard as the back-up guard. The Steelers must value Hubbard’s and Cody Wallace’s experience, which makes sense considering Finney is still young. Hopefully though this doesn’t mean Finney is on the chopping block if we bring in a new offensive lineman.

David Johnson the #2 tight end

Sorry Grimble fans, but I’m still convinced we bring in another tight end and he doesn’t stick to our 53 man roster. Johnson gets the spot because the Steelers like having a reliable blocking tight end at the #2 spot. Johnson may not be as good as Matt Spaeth was, but he’s certainly more reliable than the inconsistent Grimble.

Javon Hargrave the starting nose tackle

Many believed Hargrave would win this spot, just not this early. Hargrave made a lot of noise this preseason and certainly earned the job. The coaches are smart for putting him on the field as much as possible and utilizing their playmakers.

Dirty Red ahead of L.J. Fort

Steelers nation rejoiced when it was announced Tyler Matakevich made the 53 man roster. I was optimistic he would make the roster, but I never expected him to be placed above L.J. Fort & Steven Johnson. Dirty Red worked his butt off in the preseason and I’m excited for his future with the team.

Senquez Golson remains on the roster

Everybody was caught off guard when Bud Dupree was placed on injured reserve. Though the action raises questions about our pass-rush, it also brings up the question of how the Steelers will handle Senquez Golson. Golson recently claimed he will be able to return by October, and if this claim is true and he can return earlier than many initially thought, the Steelers may just keep Golson on the roster.

Justin Gilbert the #2 kick returner

Gilbert may not have an immediate impact on the defense, but he can help us out on special teams until he’s ready. Special teams has been the pathway for many players to make this team and prove their worth. Gilbert can use this opportunity to help earn the trust of the coaching staff.

No clear punt returner

The Steelers surprisingly have Antonio Brown and Eli Rogers both listed as punt returners. I’m an advocate for keeping Brown in the spot, but Rogers has shown in the preseason that he is capable of handling the position and I’d be fine with him taking the reigns.