Steelers 53-man roster prediction includes massive changes as training camp heats up

It is going to be hard for the Steelers to let some of these linebackers go

Outside linebacker (4): T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, Markus Golden, Nick Herbig

This position seems set as both the starters and depth pieces seem to be ironed out. T.J. Watt looks like he is returning to form after an injury riddled season last year. Alex Highsmith is reportedly putting on great performances in practice. The third outside linebacker role has been important to this defense in the past and it still needs to be figured out.

Markus Golden is a veteran player with a lot of starting experience in the NFL. It is likely that he will assume that third edge rusher role, but don't count out Nick Herbig just yet. He has been putting together a quality training camp and could challenge Golden for his spot. Their competition might not be at that level yet but expect Herbig to push him for that job.

Inside linebacker (5): Cole Holcomb, Elandon Roberts, Mark Robinson, Kwon Alexander, Tanner Muse

It seems like it will be a group effort approach to handle to question mark at inside linebacker. The Steelers have tried that in the past with mixed results with the hope of someone emerging as the top guy. Cole Holcomb will be the three-down guy for this defense, but there is a real chance that six guys at inside linebacker make this roster.

Everyone on this list have done well enough to stay in the conversation to make this team. Mark Robinson is starting to gain first team reps and could earn that bigger role in year two. Nick Kwiatkoski did not make the 53-man roster in this instance, but he has a realistic shot at making the final roster when decisions need to be made.