An early Steelers 53-man roster prediction before training camp

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GLENDALE, ARIZONA – DECEMBER 08: Linebacker Devin Bush #55 of the Pittsburgh Steelers warms up for the NFL game against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium on December 08, 2019 in Glendale, Arizona. The Pittsburgh Steelers won 23-17. (Photo by Jennifer Stewart/Getty Images) /

ILB (5): Devin Bush, Vince Williams, Robert Spillane, Buddy Johnson, Marcus Allen

I can’t see the Steelers keeping more than five players here, and with the top four essentially set (it would be surprising for the team to cut a fourth-round rookie), there should be a battle for the final spot. While Ulysees Gilbert III has flashed in the past, his inability to remain healthy has been hard for him to overcome. Marcus Allen, on the other hand, did a decent job in his transition to inside linebacker and should maintain a reserve role there.

That doesn’t mean the team will or should just cut bait with Gilbert. He would be eligible for the practice squad and could take the season to continue resting his back and being ready to be called up in an emergency. Considering the depth that was needed at this position last season, it would be shocking if the team didn’t keep an able body on the practice squad.

Devin Bush is set to return as a starter while Vince Williams will resume his role as one of the best two down linebackers in the league. While it wouldn’t happen in week one, don’t be surprised to see Buddy Johnson move past Robert Spillane at some point. The team seems happy with selecting him in the fourth, and he has the athleticism to develop into a capable player.

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