The Steelers signed eight players to their practice squad today and named four team captains for the 2011 season.

The eight players are running back John Clay, tight end/fullback Jamie McCoy, wide receiver Tyler Grisham, offensive tackle Trevis Turner, guard John Malecki, defensive lineman Corbin Bryant, linebacker Mortty Ivy and defensive back Da’Mon Cromartie Smith.

The guy in Ben Roethlisberger Steelers jersey and the guy in Hines Ward Steelers jersey will serve as captains on offense, James Farrior on defense and Arnaz Battle on special teams.

Undrafted free agent tight end Wesyle Saunders survived cut day Saturday and will likely put on Pittsburgh Steelers jerseys next weekend when the defending AFC champions open the season at Baltimore.

The 6-foot-6, 270-pound Saunders hoped to be drafted but his stock took a hit when he was forced to undergo foot surgery. He went undrafted, though the Steelers were impressed enough by his athleticism to take a chance.

 “He’s got a tremendous up-side,” said coach Mike Tomlin. “He didn’t play football a year ago, but all of those were negatives in terms of him being able to show what he’s capable of. So, when you get to this point, we look at where he’s capable of going. By no means is he a finished product.”