One thought for all 90 players on the Steelers roster entering training camp
- A plethora of defensive backs in the mix
- Plenty of developmental prospects on the roster
By Tommy Jaggi
Off-ball linebacker: Still the biggest question mark on the team
Cole Holcomb: The former Commanders team captain is expected to earn more snaps than any linebacker on the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2023, assuming he can stay healthy. He was on track for the best season of his career prior to a season-ending injury in Washington in 2022. Holcomb could prove to be an upgrade at the 'Mack' linebacker position.
Elandon Roberts: Another former team captain, Roberts isn't as well-rounded as Holcomb, but should be an asset on early down for the Steelers. The veteran linebacker and former Miami Dolphin has impressive pursuit and packs a punch, but doesn't offer much in terms of coverage ability.
Kwon Alexander: We need to be careful not to get our hopes to high. Though Alexander was a former Pro Bowler, his best football came all the way back in 2017. This signing has a Keanu Neal feel to it in some ways. Alexander could serve an important role on the team -- especially if he can handle work on passing downs -- but he's not the same player he once was.
Mark Robinson: The former seventh-round draft choice will have a chance to carve out a role if he can improve in year two. Robinson didn't get very many opportunities to prove himself last year. Like Roberts, Robinson can come downhill hard, but he needs a lot of work covering skill players in space.
Tanner Muse: Muse hasn't earned many defensive snaps early in his NFL career, but he was a core special teams player for the Seahawks. The former Clemson product could serve potentially as the up-back for the Steelers on special teams coverage units and could see the occasional snap on defense.
Nick Kwiatkowski: The longtime veteran has earned 34 starts throughout his career, but he isn't projected to see the field much if he sticks around. Kwiatkowski will still have to earn his bread on special teams -- an area where he has over 1,200 snaps of experience throughout his career.
Chapelle Russell: The former Temple product has bounced around the NFL a bit over his first three seasons. Russell has average size and modest athletic traits. He will try to earn a spot with special teams ability, but he's unlikely to stick.