3 notes from Steelers training camp after the Hall of Fame Game

Lots of questions for Steelers at inside linebacker

One thing I just we just can’t seem to figure out is what’s going on with the Pittsburgh Steelers depth at inside linebacker. This offseason, the team lost both Vince Williams (retirement) and Avery Williamson (free agency). Their departures pave the way for another young linebacker or two to step into significant roles for the team in 2021.

Unfortunately, there may not be anyone individual who is currently winning this race. When asked about the inside linebackers, Keith Butler didn’t have a lot of positives things to say, and it sounds like nobody is going to be stepping in on defense if they don’t show that they are ready to do so.

The Steelers have Devin Bush returning from an ACL injury to man the ‘Mack’ linebacker position in a full-time capacity, while Robert Spillane is expected to be the biggest beneficiary next to him in Williams’ old ‘Buck’ position this year.

However, Spillane has been unspectacular so far at training camp (particularly in coverage) and the door could be opened for someone else to step up. Behind him, Ulysees Gilbert, Marcus Allen, and Buddy Johnson could all be vying for playing time, but none of the three young linebackers have done enough yet to separate themselves from the group.

There are obviously many other takeaways from Steelers training camp, but these three notes were my biggest in recent practices. Stay tuned to see what else unfolds at camp soon.