4 dark horse Steelers candidates to take over Mark Barron’s role in 2020
By Tommy Jaggi
Ulysees Gilbert
Of the four names on this list, Ulysees Gilbert is hardly considered a dark horse, as many expect him to be the guy to nail down the job, but Gilbert comes with some big question marks like anyone else.
Despite having a promising rookie preseason last year, the 2019 6th round draft choice dressed for just 7 games due to injuries. But even if he were to stay healthy last season, what expectations should we have for Gilbert?
Not only is he a former day-three draft choice and an inexperienced football player, but Gilbert did not earn a single regular-season defensive snap with the team last year. Considering how Barron and Williams struggled at times, this is a bit concerning.
Though the Steelers were likely just easing Gilbert into his rookie year, he will have a rude awakening if he’s the player asked to take on Mark Barron’s role this season. Gilbert is a young, athletic linebacker who showed promise in the preseason, but going from zero defensive snaps to 700 could prove to be a hurdle he isn’t ready to overcome.