Historically, a strength of the Pittsburgh Steelers has always been the linebacker position. Former head coach Bill Cowher came to the Steelers in 1992 and brought the 3-4 defense and those four linebackers to prominence in the NFL. This season’s group of linebackers definitely held up the reputation of a Steelers linebacker.
Let’s look back at the numbers from last season.
Devin Bush-The talented rookie led the team in tackles and really flashed the type of potential Pittsburgh expected when they traded up to draft him. Bush didn’t see a heavy workload which was to be expected in order to help Bush avoid the rookie wall and we hope he sees more opportunities for splash plays in 2020.
2019 stats-109 total tackles, 1 sack, 1 forced fumble, 2 interceptions, 9 tackles for loss, 4 fumble recoveries
T.J. Watt-Watt is a frontrunner for Defensive Player of the Year and the undisputed leader of this group. His play was not only exceptional but he elevated the play of those around him. Watt led the team in sacks and ranked fourth in the NFL.
2019 stats-55 total tackles, 14.5 sacks, 8 forced fumbles, 2 interceptions, 14 tackles for loss, 4 fumble recoveries
Bud Dupree-2019 was the breakout season for Dupree. After four mediocre seasons, Dupree finally put things together and turned in an effort that should get him paid big money in free agency. Dupree’s athleticism was never in doubt but it was great to see him really work on his craft and become a better technician as a pass rusher.
2019 stats-68 total tackles, 11.5 sacks, 4 forced fumbles, 16 tackles for loss, 2 fumble recoveries
Mark Barron-If there was a weak link in this chain, it was Barron. Despite being third on the team in tackles, his game was more about cleanup than playmaking. The hope was Barron would find his game in new scenery but in the end he really didn’t have the level of impact many had hoped for and now finds himself on the roster bubble with a huge contract.
2019 stats-82 total tackles, 3 sacks, 4 tackles for loss, 1 fumble recovery
