Steelers 53-man roster prediction after OTAs have wrapped up

Steelers still have question marks to answer at linebacker

Linebacker (8): T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, Devin Bush, Myles Jack, Buddy Johnson, Robert Spillane, Genard Avery, Derrek Tuszka/free agent

The linebackers are broken up into two categories for the Steelers and that will not change in 2022. There are the edge players, otherwise known as the outside linebackers. Then there are the middle linebackers that roam the middle of the field and help call the shots for the defense.

The outside linebackers will consist of their two main starters that are returning from last season. That includes all-star T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith, which formed a nice duo last year. The depth behind them is scarce despite Derek Tuszka showing some promise late in 2021.

Genard Avery is a veteran guy, but there is not enough of a quality option behind the two starters. Looking at the free-agent pool might be a necessity soon. The depth at middle linebacker is a little better and will create for some good competition in camp. There are some long-standing players there that could be among the final cuts.

Buddy Johnson has been getting high marks so far in the pre-season process as he gets ready for a big year two. Robert Spillane makes the team based on his starting familiarity and special team abilities that he provides. The two starters could either become the best in the NFL or one of the worst if they cannot figure things out.