Eric Waters’ Quest For Tight End Postition With Steelers

 

Height:6’3″

Weight: 244

Age: 23

College: Missouri

Experience: Rookie

Heading in training camp, it’s no question that Eric Waters is a long-shot to make the Pittsburgh Steelers roster come opening day. From the first day of training camp up until the fourth and final in the preseason, Waters must excel. Waters fits the mold of a Pittsburgh Steeler tight end. He has size, exceptional blocking ability and toughness. After suffering a bruised neck in college against The Unversity of Alabama in the 2012 season, Waters recovered quickly and continued his college career. With his blocking ability, Waters can also play fullback, which will enhance his chances to make the opening day roster. It did wonders for former Pittsburgh Steelers tight end David Johnson. Waters faces competition this year from those with experience, including Super Bowl appearances.

The projected number two tight end is Matt Spaeth. Standing at 6’7″, 260 pounds, Spaeth has always been a threat as a blocker and pass catcher in the red zone. With nine career touchdowns catches and 50 receptions, Spaeth has shown decent skills in catching the football. But due to the fact that Spaeth is not a major receiving threat, it gives Walters a chance to make the team if he steps up his pass-catching game.

Michael Palmer has also been projected to make the team. It isn’t primarily because of his receiving ability, but it has much to do with his blocking and special teams ability.

Walters has much going for him due to the fact that last season Palmer and Spaeth combined for zero touchdowns. Blocking in the back field, catching passes on 3rd-down and the red zone will be major keys for Waters making the team.