4 Steelers that could be surprisingly cut after training camp

Steelers Vince Williams

Vince Williams was already cut once this offseason, as the Steelers were forced to release him in order to save cap space. He re-signed a few weeks after that for a minimum deal and is currently penciled in as the starter alongside Devin Bush. While a player with his status and ability to start should in theory be safe, the inside linebacker group should be a competitive group this offseason.

Robert Spillane will certainly be trying to regain the starting role he was forced into last season, and rookie Buddy Johnson has the athleticism and skill to be a long-term option at inside linebacker in this league. Having those four battle it out for the starting role doesn’t diminish Williams’ odds of making the roster though. Instead, it is the likes of Marcus Allen and Ulysees Gilbert that could undo him.

If Williams is forced into a depth role due to Spillane and/or Johnson, Allen or Gilbert could end up proving their worth on special teams. That would make them far more valuable in that depth role than Williams. Gilbert especially has a lot to live up to, as he was one of the most hyped players for the Steelers last year before once again struggling with injuries. If Williams can’t secure a starting role and the latter options prove their worth on special teams, Williams may not fit on this roster in 2021.

While the Steelers still have to get through camp, these four veterans could surprisingly find themselves as free agents after the roster is cut down. Keep an eye on them heading into camp, because if they struggle or look lackluster in comparison to their competition, they could be out of a job come the end of summer.