5 defensive draft prospects Steelers fans must watch during the Senior Bowl Game

Cedric Gray is an interesting mid-round option for the Steelers

The inside linebacker played well when they had a full bill of health. Once Cole Holcomb and Kwon Alexander were lost for the season due to injury in back-to-back weeks, things took a turn for the worst. Elandon Roberts did a quality job filling in as the top linebacker on defense, but the second options behind him were practice squad-level guys.

Expect Holcomb to return to health right before the regular season starts, and Alexander should be an option to re-sign with the Steelers. He played quality ball and exceeded the expectations put on him. As long as his health returns, Pittsburgh should offer him a short-term deal like last year. If Alexander doesn't return, then inside linebacker could be a position of need.

Cedric Gray is someone who could be of interest to the Steelers if they feel they cannot fill out their linebacker depth in free agency. If Alexander is not brought back, then expect someone like Gray to be a target during the draft process. He is a player who can play in most instances on defense and could be a reliable player if someone like Holcomb missed significant time.

Gray got better as the years went by at North Carolina. He had a down year in coverage in 2022, but he recovered nicely this past campaign. He has routinely found ways to be a reliable tackler, make plays in coverage, and rush the passer when called upon. This guy has Steelers linebacker written all over him and it would be shocking if the black and gold didn't show interest in him. Gray is likely a day-two prospect.