5 free agent linebackers Steelers could sign to replace Vince Williams

Steelers could sign Wright

If the Steelers aren’t comfortable with the thought of Spillane being the uncontested starter, K.J. Wright would make a lot of sense. While an older player (he will be 32 this season), he would be a talented veteran that would pair well with Bush along the interior. Given the team also signed a 32-year old in Melvin Ingram, it shows that the team could be breaking away from them avoiding veteran defenders regularly.

Wright has great size for a linebacker. While his play is starting to decline, he would fit well as a run-stopping linebacker for the team. As well, given the Steelers’ fondness of blitzing their inside linebackers, Wright could use his size to crash the line and get after the quarterback. He could be a versatile chess piece similar to how the team used Williams when lined up next to Bush.

Now, at his age, Wright wouldn’t be counted on to be a complete starter. Instead, he would probably reprise the role that the team was seemingly going to use Williams for. Wright would be the starting linebacker in base defense while Spillane would be the sub-package linebacker in dime and nickel. Wright could come in some then as well if need be, but his coverage is beginning to decline along with his athleticism. His contract may be more expensive than the minimum, but his market value isn’t astronomical either. He would be a good veteran-run-stopping presence for the Steelers.