3 surprise cuts the Steelers could make this offseason

2. Vince Williams

Williams picked a bad time to have one of the worst seasons of his professional career. Inside linebackers who only manage a PFF grade of 50.6 are infinitely replaceable in the modern NFL. Combine that with the reality that Pittsburgh can save $4 million by cutting him this offseason and it’s easy to understand why he’s on his way out the door.

The emergence of Devin Bush as a legitimate star at the other inside linebacker spot also adds to the ease of letting Williams walk. The Steelers can easily add another young player next to White and expect increased production in 2021.

The easiest way for Pittsburgh to secure Williams’ replacement will be through the draft. Quality inside linebacker prospects regularly drop into Day 3 due to the lack of value placed on the position around the league. Look for the Steelers to spend a modest draft choice on a rookie they believe can be an immediate upgrade over Williams in their starting lineup.

Williams will find a home elsewhere, but he’s not going to make anywhere near the money he would have if Pittsburgh stuck to his current deal. He looks like a guy who will need to sign a one-year deal in hopes of rebuilding his value before hitting the open market again in 12 months.