5 Steelers just one step away from locking up a roster spot

Steelers are getting the best out of Kwon Alexander

News broke shortly after the Steelers reported to camp that they were signing veteran linebacker Kwon Alexander. On paper, this was a surprise, as Alexander is the fifth new name at the position, and unlike the more recent additions, Alexander isn’t a notable special teams player. That means his path to make the team is purely as a defender.

Given his veteran minimum contract, age, and injury history, Alexander was far from a lock to make this roster. He was joining the Steelers behind the ball as a camp addition, and if his defensive role didn’t materialize, he wouldn’t have a home on this roster.

The early results were promising, as Alexander was quick to make an impact as a hard-hitting linebacker and a vocal leader. He was consistently setting the tone early for the team, and despite being a vested veteran, he was playing like his hair was on fire. That impact was felt in the first preseason game as well.

Assuming Alexander continues his ways for the Steelers, I think he will have a roster spot officially locked up by the end of this weekend. At this point, I think there is a better chance that Alexander becomes a starter for this defense than he does missing the roster. He has quickly made an impact as a veteran and figures to be a key face on defense this year.