5 players besides Ben Roethlisberger the Steelers can’t afford to lose in 2020

David DeCastro

David DeCastro has been a mainstay in the Steelers offensive line since being drafted in 2012. After his rookie season, in which he played in four games and started three, he became the full-time starter and is one of the best interior linemen in the league.

DeCastro has become a big-time leader on the team as a whole and among his offensive line teammates. The eight-year veteran has made five straight pro bowls and was a first-team all-pro in 2015 and 2017.

He has built a reputation as a mauler along the offensive line and a well-respected teammate. He provides the attitude of the team and will defend his brothers at all costs.

The team is getting younger in many spots and DeCastro serves as a veteran presence in the locker room. In an unusual season, veteran leadership will be more important than normal.

Perhaps the biggest reason they cannot afford to lose him is Big Ben. Part of the reason Ben is still playing is the line the Steelers built around him and losing DeCastro for any portion of the season could put Big Ben in some unwanted situations in the pocket.

The Steelers line had their struggles last season but, with a healthy Big Ben, they have a good opportunity to bounce back in 2020. That bounce-back will start with David DeCastro.