Steelers roster: Ranking the best options at linebacker next to Devin Bush

3. Ulysees Gilbert

It’s unfortunate that Ulysees Gilbert missed so much time in the first two seasons of his NFL career. After a very promising preseason performance as a rookie in 2019, Gilbert ended up on IR after dressing for just 7 games. In 2020, his season ended even faster, as the young linebacker landed on Injured Reserve after suiting up for just 4 games throughout the season.

Now finally healthy, Gilbert will be looking to take another step forward and eye an expanded role with the team in 2021. Unfortunately, his skill set isn’t what the Steelers typically look for at the “Buck” linebacker position. In the past, this is a spot that has been reserved for a generally bigger and more physical linebacker who specializes at coming downhill and taking on blocks.

Gilbert’s best traits are his movement skills and ability to turn and run in coverage – making him an ideal backup to Devin Bush at “Mack” linebacker as opposed to his counterpart at the “Buck” position. Still, if Gilbert performs well enough, I can certainly see the two linebackers playing on the field at the same time – most likely in obvious passing situations.

Gilbert will have to earn the trust of his coaches after seeing the field for just 33 defensive snaps in his first two seasons, and if he has another setback, he’s not guaranteed to make the roster in 2021.