5 Steelers who need a better 2nd half of season to not get cut
By Andrew Falce
Vince Williams
Vince Williams has been playing some impressive football this season, and one could easily argue that he is the best two-down linebacker in the league. His ability to blow up running plays beat blockers through gaps, and get after the quarterback is second to none in the league. That said, he isn’t a complete player, as his athleticism and coverage ability makes it hard to see him on the field on every play. Despite those limitations, Williams is on pace for either his best or second-best season as a pro.
The problem isn’t his play, it’s his cap number, as Williams is set to count for just over 7 million against the cap in 2021. If the Steelers release him, they could save 3 million in cap space. While that may not seem like a lot, the team will need all of the help that they can get in 2021. That money could be used to get cap compliant or resign one of the pending free agents. If he continues his play though, it may be hard for the Steelers to cut him.
Williams will need a strong second half of the season to ensure he still has a spot on this roster next year. If he continues to play at a high level, he may be in line for another extension to lower his hit this year. If his play levels out or even dips, it will be hard to justify keeping him around. As of now, his needle is likely favoring safe, but if he lets up and his play slips, he will more than likely be looking for a new team in 2021.