Steelers 53-man roster prediction: How does the draft chance the outlook?

Linebacker (8):

T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, Genard Avery, Derrek Tuszka, Devin Bush, Myles Jack, Buddy Johnson, Robert Spillane

The Steelers have a strong group of linebackers entering 2022. They could use another couple of depth edge rushers to play a role behind T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith, but we shall see if that happens. The edge rushers are straightforward now, but the quality isn’t there for the unit.

Genard Avery has been in the league for some time now and that is a benefit. He has not done much in terms of production since his rookie season with the Cleveland Browns. Derrek Tuszka had a solid conclusion to the 2021 season and that gave him a realistic shot at making this roster.

Devin Bush and Myles Jack are the two starters in the middle of this defense. Buddy Johnson has not done much since being drafted so hopefully he will take a step forward in year two. He has been a disappointment thus far, but he still has more chances.

Robert Spillane is someone the team is comfortable with and has starting experience. That experience and the team’s likability alone will probably allow him to stick on this roster. He can play on run downs and should be taken off the field during those long passing downs, despite the coach’s infatuation with keeping him on the field in those circumstances.