The final week of the NFL preseason is here. That means roster decisions are looming. As preseason games wrap up over the weekend, teams will then cut their rosters down to 53 players by Sunday at 6 p.m. ET.
Several former Hoosiers from last year's National Championship-winning team are looking to make the cut for their respective teams. Among them is defensive back Devan Boykin, who signed with the Steelers after going undrafted in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Projecting Indiana Football's Week 1 starting unit: Who makes the cut?
After several impressive preseason showings, Boykin has made a strong case to make the Steelers' 53-man roster. His most recent performance has him owning plenty of momentum heading into roster cuts.
Former Hoosier Devan Boykin shines in Steelers' preseason finale
The Steelers wrapped up their preseason slate on Thursday night against the Bills. Boykin made sure to make his presence known all game long. The former Hoosier collected 9 tackles (5 solo) on the night, which led all players on both sides.
Boykin was making plays all over the field, showcasing his versatility and playmaking ability. Along with his high football IQ and physicality, Boykin's ability to diagnose plays quickly and put himself in the right position throughout the night led to an all-around impressive outing.
Previously, Boykin totaled 4 tackles (3 solo) and a tackle for loss against the Packers and then collected 3 tackles (2 solo) against the Jets. In total, he ends his preseason slate with 16 tackles (10 solo) and a tackle for loss. His performances with Pittsburgh this month have provided a strong reminder of the instincts that made him a standout during his lone season at Indiana.
Devan Boykin making plays in Pittsburgh. #iufb pic.twitter.com/2Nlxp83h6i
— Ian Plaskoff (@ian_plaskoff) August 14, 2026
Boykin spent four seasons at NC State before transferring to Indiana for the 2025 campaign. He appeared in all 16 games making 10 starts for the Hoosiers, and collected 59 tackles (39 solo), 6 tackles for loss, a sack and a pair of interceptions. He also added a forced fumble that he returned for a touchdown against Maryland.
Devan Boykin's versatility could land him on the Steelers' 53-man roster
Despite his strong preseason outings, ESPN currently projects that Boykin won't make it onto Pittsburgh's 53-man roster. ESPN's Brooke Pryor instead has the Steelers giving cornerback spots to Jalen Ramsey, Joey Porter Jr, Jamel Dean, Asante Samuel Jr, Daylen Everette, and Brandin Echols.
Before arriving in Bloomington, Boykin suffered a torn ACL in 2023 and ended up missing all of the 2024 season because of it. But despite some possible injury concern, there is a lot to like about what Boykin brings to the table.
Most notably, Boykin's elite versatility makes him a valuable asset. Throughout the course of his college career, Boykin played free safety, strong safety, and nickelback at both NC State and Indiana. Not only does that help raise his stock, but it opens the door for a roster spot.
But with Pittsburgh's preseason schedule now complete, all Boykin can do is wait. Sunday's deadline is quickly approaching, and Hoosier fans are hoping Boykin has done enough to earn a spot on Pittsburgh's 53-man roster.
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