Over the next few days, the NFL’s 32 teams will begin their respective training camps. Some are already in the thick of things. The 90-man roster is set and the team will be looking at their depth chart for every position entering training camp. This series will examine who has the inside chances to be higher on the depth chart come August. For this edition, we will look at inside linebackers.
Pittsburgh Steelers Inside Linebacker Depth Chart Projections
1. Ryan Shazier
Ryan Shazier is one of the top inside linebackers in the entire NFL. If not for injury issues in his career, Shazier would be getting a lot more attention for his performance. Last season, Shazier tied rookie cornerback Artie Burns for the team lead in interceptions with three. On top of that, Shazier tied with safety Mike Mitchell for second on the team in tackles with 55. Last season’s team leader in tackles, Lawrence Timmons, signed with the Miami Dolphins as a free agent this offseason, so expect Shazier to really break out and have a huge season.
2. Vince Williams
Vince Williams has filled in for Shazier nicely whenever he has need to, and has also been a major factor for the Steelers on special teams. In 2017, Williams is expected to start alongside Shazier and should be eager to make the most of the opportunity. In 2016, Williams had 47 tackles and also added two sacks. Expect Williams to make a lot of big plays because of opposing offenses not being able to determine which linebackers are blitzing and which ones are staying back in coverage.
3. Tyler Matakevich
Tyler Matakevich is ready to battle with Williams for the second starting position at inside linebacker. Matakevich showed a lot of potential in his rookie season last year, even with limited playing time. While Williams is expected to be the starter, it’s not a long shot for Matakevich to be in the starting role by the end of the season. Especially if the Steelers start to struggle on kick and punt coverages, look for Williams to move back to special teams and Matakevich to be promoted to a starting role on defense. However, it seems that the plan is to start Williams and use Matakevich on special teams.
4. L.J. Fort
L.J. Fort is a bit of a dark horse for the Steelers at inside linebacker. Beginning his career in Cleveland, and even starting a game, Fort then moved to Seattle in his second season before finally ending up in Pittsburgh as a member of the Steelers. He spent his first season on the practice squad before playing in 14 games last season, primarily on special teams. Fort is expected to again be primarily used on special teams, but is currently listed behind Williams on the depth chart, while Matakevich is listed behind Shazier. Perhaps the Steelers have some high hopes for Fort, so his role could increase in 2017.
5. Steven Johnson
Steven Johnson started his career in Denver, eventually becoming a starter by his third season. He then signed with the Tennessee Titans for one season before being signed by the Steelers. Johnson spent most of 2017 on the practice squad, but did play in six games. Johnson will likely be on the practice squad again for the majority of 2017, but could end up playing on special teams or filling in for an injury.
6. Keith Kelsey
Keith Kelsey is an undrafted rookie out of Louisville and will likely spend 2017 on the practice squad for the Steelers. However, Kelsey could also become a pivotal player on special teams for the Steelers. He’ll be battling with Johnson and Fort for a spot on the active roster.
