Early 53-man roster predictions for Pittsburgh Steelers after the NFL Draft
By Tommy Jaggi
Linebackers (4):
Steelers roster prediction: Cole Holcomb, Elandon Roberts, Mark Robinson, Tanner Muse
The Steelers linebackers look completely different in 2023 than they did just a season ago. In 2022, this was a group that consisted of Myles Jack, Devin Bush, and Robert Spillane leading the charge. Unfortunately, the results were disastrous and Pittsburgh wanted to wipe the slate clean this year.
Omar Khan quickly went out and signed veterans Cole Holcomb and Elandon Roberts -- both of whom are former team captains. Though the Steelers paid two outside free agents this offseason, Mark Robinson stands an excellent shot to make the team, thanks to the departures of Jack, Bush, and Spillane.
Robinson was a seventh-round draft choice in 2022. In his second season, he could try to carve out a role with some early-down work. I have the fourth linebacker spot going to newcomer Tanner Muse. Muse was a special teams ace with the Seahawks prior to joining the Steelers.
In the past, Pittsburgh has kept as many as five off-ball linebackers at times. However, I have a very hard time finding a player who would be deserving of devoting an additional roster spot. Muse might be able to fill the up-back role on special teams previously occupied by Marcus Allen (who is a free agent). They may just roll with four at the position this year.