MIDDLE LINEBACKER ROOM PREDICTIONS- Patrick Queen, Elandon Roberts, Payton Wilson, Mark Robinson
(IR- Cole Holcomb)
The Pittsburgh Steelers had seven middle linebackers start at least one game for them last season. Cole Holcomb and Kwon Alexander were the two starters heading into the 2023 season, but due to season-ending injuries. Both were on injured reserve after week ten. So, this put the Steelers in an interesting situation. The team would sign multiple free agent linebackers to try to fill the spots that Holcomb and Alexander left. Bringing in veterans such as Myles Jack and Blake Martinez did help later in the season, but Elandon Roberts held this linebacker group together.
Battling with injuries throughout the season, Roberts still delivered repeatedly. This is why heading into 2024, Roberts will be the linebacker two in the defense. As for the linebacker one, Patrick Queen will receive that position. This offseason, the Steelers signed Queen to a massive three-year contract to give the Steelers’ middle linebacker group a much need boost. With Queen and Roberts at the reigns, this linebacker core will be looking scary in week one.
As it was stated before, Cole Holcomb and Kwon Alexander were the two starters in 2023. But both suffered huge injuries. Now in 2024, Cole Holcomb is still with the Steelers though his return is undetermined. Holcomb suffered multiple torn muscles in his leg in a week nine matchup and was out for the rest of the season. Holcomb is still recovering from the injury and is absent from OTAs. Only time will tell if he will be ready to play in 2024. Kwon Alexander is a little different than Holcomb as he looks to be healthy. However, Alexander is currently a free agent. And with the Steelers already having his role replaced by Patrick Queen, it is unlikely that Alexander will come back to Pittsburgh.
Payton Wilson is a talented linebacker out of NC State. With injury concerns, Wilson fell to the third round where the Steelers drafted the young man. Wilson is a projected back-up behind Queen and Roberts but could very well start next season. Wilson has the talent and college production to start day one, but with his injury past, it is hard to put that pressure on him. Mark Robinson has a good opportunity to make the 53-man roster while Holcomb is recovering. However, with the insane depth the Steelers now have at linebacker, it would be hard for Robinson is see some playing time if any.