Linebackers (9):
Steelers roster prediction: T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, Markus Golden, Nick Herbig, Cole Holcomb, Kwon Alexander, Elandon Roberts, Tanner Muse, Mark Robinson
I feel pretty confident in this group as of now, and I wouldn’t expect any deviation from this list. The edge rushers, in particular, are set in stone. The Steelers have arguably the best pass-rushing duo in the league in T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith. They also have a capable veteran presence to spell them.
The real surprise of the group was Nick Herbig. The fourth-round pick had a lot of question marks about his position given his smaller stature, but he answered them quickly. From practice to games, Herbig was easily one of the biggest standouts for the Steelers during the offseason.
Moving to off-ball, the Steelers will likely roll with the trio of Cole Holcomb, Kwon Alexander, and Elandon Roberts as starters. Holcomb is set to be the every-down linebacker for this team while Roberts and Alexander will see the field based on offensive personnel. While the group lacks a big name, the trio appears to be an upgrade.
Tanner Muse got better as preseason went on, and while the goal should be not to see him on the defensive field, he is a great special teams player. Rounding out the group is Mark Robinson. I had higher hopes for the former seventh-round pick, and while he looks set to make the roster, he will likely be inactive unless there is an injury.
Potential surprise cut: Robinson
I don’t think you can write Robinson in as a roster lock quite yet. The team clearly isn’t that confident in him, as they added three players to play over him. If they only carry four, he is the odd man out, or if a name becomes available that they like. It has been a tough stretch for him.