5 free agent linebackers Steelers could sign to replace Vince Williams

With Williams announcing his retirement, the Steelers could be on the hunt for another body at inside linebacker.

In a move that came out of nowhere, veteran linebacker Vince Williams decided to retire after an eight-year career with the Steelers. The move was shocking due to him having been cut and then re-signed which made it seem like he would be around for at least one more year.

Now, the Steelers will need a new starter across from Devin Bush. While Robert Spillane and even Buddy Johnson will get a crack at the other starting role, it seemed heavily implied that there would be a rotation there, which means the team may still want a veteran to come in and compete. With all that said, here are five free agents the Steelers could sign to replace Williams:

Steelers could sign Davis

One of the most logical names on the free-agent market is veteran linebacker, Todd Davis. He is a player in the same mold as Williams, as he lacks the athleticism and coverage skills to be a dynamic every-down starter, but he is a solid run defender that can chip in on special teams. He could be had for the minimum as well, meaning he wouldn’t spend any of the Steelers’ preciously thin salary cap.

Now, Davis wouldn’t move the needle much in terms of starting. While he could rotate in with Spillane in base defense, he wouldn’t see many snaps beyond that assuming everyone stayed healthy. He would be solid and cheap depth though, as well as a player that could still contribute on special teams some despite his age. It wouldn’t be a roster-shattering move, but it would be a cheap way to keep the depth of this group strong.