The Pittsburgh Steelers have made notable changes to their practice squad ahead of Week 3. On September 17, ESPN’s Brooke Pryor reported that the team had re-signed wide receiver Jaray Jenkins, a familiar face who spent training camp and preseason with the Steelers.
“Steelers are signing WR Jaray Jenkins back to the practice squad, per source,” Pryor noted.
Jenkins, an LSU product, was part of the Tigers’ national championship team during the 2019 season but has yet to appear in an NFL regular-season game. After going undrafted in the 2023 NFL Draft, Jenkins had brief stints with the Jacksonville Jaguars and Pittsburgh Steelers before being released. His return comes after an impressive showing during preseason action with Pittsburgh.
Jenkins to Replace Shaquan Davis on the Practice Squad
Jenkins is set to replace wide receiver Shaquan Davis, whom the Steelers released from their practice squad along with cornerback Zyon Gilbert. The Steelers also bolstered their secondary depth by adding defensive backs James Pierre and D’Shawn Jamison.
Steelers’ Long-Term Plans for Jenkins
Jenkins, who became a regular contributor at LSU, posted his best season in 2021 with 34 catches for 502 yards. Throughout his college career, he averaged 15.4 yards per catch, scoring 14 touchdowns. Despite not making the Steelers’ final 53-man roster, Jenkins impressed with his size and route-running ability during training camp.
Steelers Depot’s Alex Kozora mentioned that Jenkins, initially seen as a long shot to make the team, surpassed expectations.
“With size and decent route running, he made plays over the middle and could produce a little post-catch,” Kozora wrote. “He led all players by averaging 16.4 yards per catch.”
Jenkins’ versatility as a receiver and potential value on special teams might have played a role in his return to Pittsburgh, particularly with current wide receiver Ben Skowronek nursing a shoulder injury. Jenkins could be elevated to the active roster to fill Skowronek’s special teams role if needed.
Special Teams Critical for Steelers’ Success
Special teams will likely be a key factor for the Steelers this season, as they’ve heavily relied on defense and special teams to win their first two games. Punt coverage, in particular, will be crucial after the loss of starting punter Cameron Johnston in Week 1. In his absence, veteran Corliss Waitman averaged 53 yards per punt in Week 2.
With the Steelers preparing for their home opener against the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 3, Jenkins’ return could provide crucial depth, especially in a special teams role as Pittsburgh looks to maintain their early season momentum.
