As the NFL season rolls on, teams are evaluating their rosters, and for some, it’s time to make tough decisions. The Thanksgiving holiday is often seen as a benchmark for teams to reassess their future. For some players, their time with their current teams is likely running out. Van Jefferson and three Pittsburgh Steelers players are at the top of the list for being shown the door after this holiday season.
Van Jefferson – Wide Receiver, Los Angeles Rams
Van Jefferson’s time with the Los Angeles Rams is nearing its end. Once seen as a promising talent with great speed and potential, Jefferson has failed to live up to expectations. Despite flashes of brilliance, his inconsistency and inability to contribute on a regular basis have caused major frustration for Rams fans and coaching staff alike. With the emergence of other wide receivers and a shift in offensive schemes, Jefferson has become expendable. It’s time for the Rams to cut their losses and move forward with a more reliable receiving corps.
Mitch Trubisky – Quarterback, Pittsburgh Steelers
The Pittsburgh Steelers should have made this decision a long time ago, but it’s clear that Mitch Trubisky’s tenure as a backup quarterback is reaching its expiration date. Trubisky, once thought to be a potential savior for the Steelers when they signed him last year, has proven to be a huge letdown. His inconsistent play when stepping in for Kenny Pickett, combined with his inability to lead the offense effectively, has shown that he doesn’t have the skill set to be the team’s backup quarterback. It’s time to move on and find someone with more promise and potential to develop.
Kenny Pickett – Quarterback, Pittsburgh Steelers
Speaking of quarterbacks, the Steelers should start rethinking their future with Kenny Pickett. Pickett was supposed to be the next great quarterback in Pittsburgh after Ben Roethlisberger’s retirement, but so far, he has been underwhelming. His lack of development, poor decision-making, and inability to perform in critical moments have put the team in a tough spot. While it’s still early, the Steelers may need to consider drafting a new quarterback or exploring other options in the offseason if Pickett doesn’t turn things around.
Najee Harris – Running Back, Pittsburgh Steelers
Najee Harris came into the NFL with a ton of hype as one of the best running back prospects in years. However, his performance in his first few seasons has been disappointing. Harris has struggled to find consistency in his running style, and with the Steelers’ offensive line not doing him any favors, his production has been subpar. The Steelers need a fresh start at running back, and Harris may be better off being traded or moved to another role within the team.
As the Steelers and Rams approach the final stretch of the season, it’s clear that changes need to be made. Van Jefferson and these Steelers players are all likely candidates to be shown the door after Thanksgiving, as their underperformance and inability to meet expectations have left their futures in doubt. With the postseason on the line, it’s time for these teams to make tough decisions for the betterment of the future.