5 players on the Steelers that could unexpectantly impress this training camp

A local Pittsburgh product could become a starter on defense

It is always interesting to see a player that grew up in the Pittsburgh area have a shot at making his hometown team. The Steelers have a lot of issues at middle linebacker, and it seems like Cole Holcomb is the only shot at being the top dog at the position. Besides Mark Robinson returning, the entire linebacker group is newly configured.

As stated above, Holcomb will be the likely No. 1 linebacker in the middle of this defense, but his partner in crime is still out there. Elandon Roberts will likely get a fair shake to get that spot and so too will Robinson. It is also possible that the black and gold look for alternatives that are not on the roster as potential upgrades.

One name that was added late and has not gotten a lot of attention going into training camp is Nick Kwiatkoski. He has a ton of starting experience in the NFL and could have a good camp, which would align him into the starter conversation. Another thing that might make him somewhat of interest to the fans is his local roots.

He attended West Virginia University, but he hails from his hometown of Bethel Park. Kwiatkoski is a name that is currently flying under the radar, but he has a ton of experience as a starter in this league and could be the new Robert Spillane in some instances. He is coming off two poor seasons and needs to prove himself again. He is not going to be a Pro Bowler, but he could shock many and win a starting job next to Holcomb out of camp.