4 critical takeaways from Steelers first week of training camp

Steelers aren’t pleased with their linebackers

Pittsburgh made a clear goal to overhaul their linebacker room this offseason, as the play there hasn’t been strong the past few seasons. While the group is still lacking a true star player, they have added, as of this writing, five new linebackers to this room, and all five have a chance to make the active roster.

The latest, and arguably second most notable name, to be brought in is veteran Kwon Alexander. While he was, at one point in time, an elite defender, age and injuries have hampered him. That said, he was still a good defender for the Jets last season and figures to be one of the three regular linebackers on the field.

The lone holdover from last season, Mark Robinson, has to feel like he is in a tough position right now. While some fans, myself included, thought that Robinson could be the starter this year, he is now clearly on the roster bubble. He looked fine in his snaps last season, but he is lacking experience and wasn’t a prime special teams player last year.

While this is less training camp news and more roster construction, the Steelers are clearly trying to get more out of the group. That may cost Robinson his roster spot, as the team has added a plethora of options that can play on defense and special teams. This team wants a new-look linebacker group, and Pittsburgh will leave no stone unturned to accomplish that.