The Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing for their upcoming training camp at Saint Vincent College, with a particular focus on the inside linebacker position. The team has transitioned from having instability in this area to possessing one of the deepest groups on their roster.
Patrick Queen, who joined the Steelers last offseason from the Ravens, is a key figure in this transformation. In 2024, he led the team with 129 tackles and expressed his desire for further improvement. “I’m always going to be searching and looking for more that I can do,” Queen said during minicamp.
Payton Wilson is expected to partner with Queen as a starter after spending last season primarily in nickel defense. Despite limited playtime, Wilson was fourth on the team with 79 tackles and contributed significantly to defensive plays.
Cole Holcomb’s return is another highlight for the Steelers’ linebackers. After missing significant time due to injury since signing in 2023, Holcomb is now fully recovered and adds veteran depth to the squad.
Malik Harrison, another addition from free agency, brings experience from his time with the Ravens and will contribute both defensively and on special teams.
Mark Robinson enters his fourth NFL season focusing primarily on special teams but faces competition from newcomer Carson Bruener. Bruener comes with a strong college record and family ties to the Steelers through his father, Mark Bruener.
Additionally, Devin Harper joins as a seasoned competitor for playing time among linebackers after appearing in several games focused on special teams during his career.
