Steelers roster: 4 big names on the bubble prior to training camp

LB Vince Williams

(UPDATE: Vince Williams has officially announced his retirement, via Pittsburgh Steelers)

In no other season has Vince Williams’ roster spot even been in question. Despite being a former 6th round draft choice all the way back in 2013, Williams quickly found a situational role on the Steelers and later became the starting “Buck” linebacker.

Even when the Steelers signed Mark Barron and traded up to the 10th overall pick for Devin Bush, Williams had a big role on Pittsburgh’s defense. However, this is the first year that his roster spot isn’t guaranteed. In fact, there’s certainly a path that has him excluded from the roster in 2021.

The Steelers cut Vince Williams earlier this offseason due to his large cap hit, but he was soon re-signed for the veteran minimum. However, that hardly secures his roster spot on the team. Pittsburgh finally has both Devin Bush and Robert Spillane healthy, and they drafted an athletic linebacker in Buddy Johnson in the 4th round this year. Additionally, Ulysees Gilbert – who showed promise prior to landing on IR for the second straight season – will have a chance to carve out a role.

Because of his veteran leadership in a closing Super Bowl window, my money is on Vince Williams sticking around in 2021, but he’s going to have to show that he still has it. At the very least, Williams should be considered in competition at the linebacker position.