Training Camp is finally here, Steelers fans! As part of our Training Camp Confidential here at SCN, I am delighted to share with you my prediction of who will win each positional battle on the defensive side of the ball. With several new faces on the defense, there will be much focus on the unit early in camp, especially at linebacker and cornerback.

Having said that, the stalwarts on defense remain the same in Minkah Fitzpatrick, Cameron Heyward, and Joey Porter, Jr. After revamping the inside linebacker room over the past two offseasons, the Steelers hope they finally got it right at the position, as it would turn the Steelers defense into an elite unit once again. Still, several key positional battles will take place on the defensive side of the ball, and the outcome of each could make a major impact on how the unit looks as a whole

With a lot to get into and little time to discuss, let’s dive in!

ILB2: Elandon Roberts vs. Cole Holcomb vs. Payton Wilson

This is what I believe to be the most heated battle on defense during training camp. Patrick Queen will be the “dude” at MACK while also calling plays, but who will play that traditional BUCK linebacker role? Cole Holcomb played well once he got his feet wet last season, but a devastating injury could hamper his ability, especially early in the year. While I like the idea of Payton Wilson having a role in Year 1, I do not expect the Steelers to give him a starting job with the current guys at the top of the depth chart. I did not have incredibly high expectations when the Steelers signed Elandon Roberts last offseason, but he kept the Steelers defense glued together in 2023 with absolutely stellar play. It will be tough to bench him after the way he finished last season.

Projected Winner: Elandon Roberts

NCB: Anthony Averett vs. Beanie Bishop, Jr. vs Damontae Kazee vs. Darius Rush

The nickel cornerback position will likely be manned by Cameron Sutton during the second half of the season, but during his suspension, the Steelers have a hole that must be filled. Both Anthony Averett and Darius Rush are more experienced on the perimeter, but both have the skill set needed to move inside if called upon. However, I expect the team to explore options outside the building before moving either of them to the inside. I also highly doubt the Steelers hand an undrafted rookie a starting job right out the gate.

Projected Winner: Damontae Kazee

CB4: Cory Trice vs. Darius Rush vs. Anthony Averett

The top backup job on the perimeter could be a toss-up, with Trice and Rush displaying incredible potential after Year 1 in the NFL and Averett having proven himself already in Baltimore. I understand we never saw anything in real-game action with Trice, but the hype surrounding him seems as real as last year, and if we are hearing it two years in a row, I tend to believe the Steelers are seeing it too and have confidence in his ability to step in in the event of an injury.

Projected Winner: Cory Trice

DL5: DeMarvin Leal vs. Isaiahh Loudermilk vs. Logan Lee vs. Jonathan Marshall vs. Breiden Fehoko vs. Montravius Adams

This may be the toughest battle to predict, as there are so many stylistic differences amongst these linemen. Leal and Loudermilk should be considered cut candidates, and unless Logan Lee sets the world on fire in camp, I believe the practice squad is the most likely landing spot for him. This makes the DL5, in all likelihood, the backup to Keanu Benton at nose tackle. Fehoko has been unable to beat Adams and Marshall in the past, and his lack of explosion will likely prevent him from changing that narrative. I, personally, would like to see Jonathan Marshall win the job, as he is the most explosive depth lineman on the roster, especially along the interior. Dean Lowry will be relied on often in a 5-technique role, and Marshall’s athleticism would round out the group nicely. However, Adams’ experience with the team will likely be enough to earn him this spot on the depth chart.

Projected Winner: Montravius Adams

Who do you think is the favorite in these battles? Be sure to share your thoughts in the comment section below!