3 Steelers fighting for their job in training camp

1. ILB Vince Williams

He’s been with the organization for eight years after being a sixth-round draft choice in 2013. Inside linebacker Vince Williams has been a steady performer for the team for the most part. He comes off a season in which he finished second on the Steelers, to go along with three sacks and two fumbles recoveries in 14 outings. He missed one game due to a knee injury and another after being placed on the COVID-19 list.

Inside linebacker was a turnstile for the team this past season. Devin Bush was lost for the year after five games and the club traded for Avery Williamson. Robert Spillane stepped into a starting role but would also eventually miss time, as would Cortez Allen. Pittsburgh’s run defense was suspect entering 2020 and Keith Butler’s unit had its issues in the area again.

The likelihood is that Williams – cut and re-signed by the franchise this offseason to aid the salary cap (via Spotrac) – isn’t going anywhere. He brings a lot to the table and is one of the team’s elder statesmen.

But the Steelers do have some intriguing young players at inside linebacker in Spillane and 2021 fourth-round draft choice Buddy Johnson – a thumper from Texas A&M who could help the run defense significantly. Could the Steelers look to get really young at these two inside spots? Or could Williams, a 14-game starter in 2020 – take on a different role?