Steelers 53-man roster prediction right before training camp starts

Linebackers could use some outside help to improve their depth

Outside linebackers (4): T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, Derrek Tuszka, outside free agent

Outside linebacker could get interesting as the pre-season weighs on. T.J. Watt is back, and he will be the biggest impact player on defense. He has been one of the best, if not the best, defensive players in the NFL over the last three years.

Alex Highsmith is returning, and he carries a lot of expectations with him as many believe that he can eclipse the ten-sack mark in 2022. The depth behind the two starters is scarce right now. Genard Avery is on the roster currently, but the Steelers need to find a better depth option in free agency to bring in. Derrek Tuszka showed some nice glimpses late last year and could compile that into a roster spot now.

Inside linebackers (4): Devin Bush, Myles Jack, Buddy Johnson, Robert Spillane

Inside linebacker could have some depth battles in training camp or the coaches could feel like keeping five instead of four. The two starters will be Devin Bush and Myles Jack as these two players need to prove themselves in the NFL. It could be either the best tandem in the league or one of the worst.

The depth behind them could be a bit shallow, especially with only keeping four. Buddy Johnson will be back and should take a step forward in year two. Robert Spillane beat out Marcus Allen and others for the final spot on the roster because he brings experience both starting at the position and on special teams.