Pittsburgh Steelers: Is Shamarko Thomas Ready To Move Up Depth Chart?

When traning camp opens the last weekend of July in Latrobe for the Pittsburgh Steelers, it will be time for second-year safetyShamarko Thomasto shine. In the first eight weeks of last season, the Virginia Beach native got nearly 200 snaps under his belt inDick LeBeau‘s defense.

The 5-foot-9 former Syracuse Orangeman is not conceding the free safety starting job to six-year free agent veteran Mike Mitchell, who the Black and Gold signed from the Carolina Panthers in the offseason.

Thomas needs to put his energetic and fierce style on display for everyone to see. In spring workouts, however, he was taking reps with the second team.

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As Dave Bryan from Yardbarker.com suggested, a solid training camp by the fourth-round draft pick in 2013 could give head coach Mike Tomlin the luxury of being able to carry just four safeties on the 53-man roster this season instead of five.

MaybeTroy Polamalu, Mitchell, Thomas and third-year safety/special teams standoutRobert Goldencould be the quartet that makes a difference. It could leave veteranWill Allenas the odd man out when it’s time to trim the roster.

Last season as a rookie, Thomas had his best game in the 19-16 win over the Baltimore Ravens in Week 7 when he put up four solo tackles and assisted on three. He also contributed a total of six special teams tackles over the 2013 campaign.

Thomas is the prospect trying to find his way in an experienced secondary. Polamalu and cornerbackIke Taylorboth have 12 seasons under their belts. Allen has 10 NFL seasons on his resume while third cornerbackWilliam Gayhas seven.

We will have to wait and see in August if youth will be served in the defensive backfield.