Proper Roster Building Requires ‘Special’ Balance

Yesterday, Alex Kozora turned his focus in his All-22 look series on an aspect of the game that simply does not get enough attention generally, unless, as with offensive linemen, somebody makes a mistake.

The topic was special teams, and he looked specifically at Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey’s usage as the contain player on the team’s kickoff coverage units, a role that he served well, albeit in obscurity.

The point of emphasis here can be better portrayed in the light of the reactions of many to the Steelers’ re-signing of Heyward-Bey, wondering what use he could possibly have for the team, who would at this point, at best, be the fourth wide receiver, and more…