The Pittsburgh Steelers should seriously consider upgrading their inside linebacker group before the November 10 trade deadline, even with wide receivers dominating the conversation. Patrick Queen and Payton Wilson remain the starters, but Pittsburgh's depth behind them leaves room for a meaningful defensive addition.
Queen complicates that argument with his recent performances. He recorded 12 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and a forced fumble in Pittsburgh's 27-6 victory over Cleveland. Wilson added eight tackles, including an impressive stop near the goal line. Neither looks like someone who desperately needs replacing.
But two excellent performances don't offset concerns about the position. Queen's inconsistency has already fueled Steelers trade speculation, while Pittsburgh's reserve options offer limited evidence that they could maintain the same defensive versatility if either starter became unavailable.
Pittsburgh Steelers need inside linebacker insurance without disrupting their starters
Queen and Wilson give Pittsburgh the athleticism to pursue ball carriers, attack downhill, and handle demanding coverage responsibilities. Defensive coordinator Patrick Graham can build around those traits, particularly when his front creates opportunities for linebackers to attack.
The depth chart becomes less convincing after those two.
Cole Holcomb provides veteran experience, while Carson Bruener contributes valuable special-teams ability. Pittsburgh also brought Elandon Roberts back into the organization, giving the defense another downhill option.
Those players have legitimate uses, but none can fully replace the responsibilities assigned to Queen or Wilson.
The Steelers trade deadline board has already identified linebacker help as a potential priority. That makes sense for a defense trying to maintain momentum rather than gamble on perfect health throughout the season.
Tennessee Titans linebacker Cedric Gray presents an intriguing name to investigate.
Gray has contributed as a rotational defender for Tennessee, recording 29 combined tackles through seven games, according to the Titans' official defensive statistics. His athletic profile and developing NFL experience make him interesting, although his limited starting résumé hardly guarantees an immediate upgrade.
Tennessee also hasn't established that Gray is available. Pittsburgh would need to determine whether the Titans would entertain an offer and whether his potential justifies surrendering draft capital.
The Steelers also have alternatives. Their potential defensive trade targets include more experienced linebackers who could provide immediate rotational value.
Wide receiver remains a legitimate concern, especially with injuries to Michael Pittman Jr. and Roman Wilson disrupting the offense. But Pittsburgh has DK Metcalf, emerging rookie Germie Bernard, and two productive tight ends supporting Aaron Rodgers.
Inside linebacker presents a different roster-building challenge. Pittsburgh cannot assume its current starters will handle every demanding assignment for the remainder of the season without needing additional support.
The Steelers enter their bye week at 6-2, leading the AFC North. With the trade deadline approaching, Omar Khan should prioritize finding an affordable linebacker who strengthens the rotation without sacrificing valuable future assets.
Another receiver might create more excitement. A dependable inside linebacker could help preserve the defensive identity Pittsburgh will need against Cincinnati, Baltimore, and the AFC's strongest playoff contenders.
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