Steelers 53-man roster prediction before 2021 training camp

Steelers Inside Linebacker (5)

Devin Bush, Robert Spillane, Buddy Johnson, Ulysees Gilbert III, Marcus Allen

The top of this depth chart is mostly set, as the Steelers have five realistic inside linebacker candidates at a position where they will likely keep five guys. Unless a free agent is added, these are likely the five players that will be kept for the 2021 season. The starters should be mostly set with Devin Bush and Robert Spillane, while Buddy Johnson could develop a role as a run defender at some point.

Initially, it seemed as if Marcus Allen and Ulysees Gilbert were going to have to fight it out for the final spot on the roster. With Vince Williams retiring, both can find their way on the roster for now. Allen can continue his transition to linebacker while Gilbert will look to flash the ability he showcased as a rookie. He needs to stay healthy, but the sky is the limit for him if his back holds up in 2021.

With Williams gone, don’t be surprised to see the Steelers add some sort of a veteran to this group. The inside linebacker group is extremely young right now, so an established vet to add depth and potentially push Spillane would be a smart move. For now, though, these five seem like a relatively set group heading into training camp.