Which Steelers LB will earn the biggest role alongside Devin Bush?

Which Steelers LB will win the starting role in the future?

For the 2021 season, the mostly outcome is for the Steelers to deploy a combination of Vince Williams and Robert Spillane opposite of Devin Bush for base and nickel packages in Pittsburgh’s defense with Gilbert and Allen occasionally spelling Bush of some snaps. It’s likely that Williams will be used primarily as an early-down linebacker as a run defender and blizter, whereas Spillane will be used more in true pass sets.

However, this is really going to change after the 2021 season. After this coming season, Spillane, Williams, and Allen are all unrestricted free agents, and Williams may opt to retire. In addition, Gilbert will have just one year remaining on his rookie deal, and he still needs to show that he can stay healthy.

Barring the Steelers using a high draft choice at this position next April, I think it’s very likely that Johnson will be given the chance to solidify himself as the starting ‘Buck’ linebacker next to Devin Bush. He has the desired size and athletic traits, and the timing works in his favor as three Steelers linebackers are set to be free agents after the 2021 season.

Obviously, we still need time to see how all of this is going to play out down the road, and training camp will give us a clearer depiction of what the Steelers think of each player. All of these Pittsburgh linebackers bring something different to the table, but if all goes well, it could be the rookie who earns a true starting gig in the not-too-distant future.