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Steelers defensive coordinator and outside linebackers coach Keith Butler revealed to the media today that they're looking for a No. 3 outside linebacker to give T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith a break when needed. Butler's statement certainly gives the impression that he's not confident in either veteran edge rusher Cassius Marsh or sixth-round pick Quincy Roche having that role.
"We're looking for a third guy," Butler said via Chris Carter of DKPittsburghSports. "We've always wanted to have a third guy. Last year that guy was Alex. When we lost Bud (Dupree), he was a big part of our defense. We hated to lose him but that's the nature of this game sometimes when it comes to money and salary cap. We're looking for a third guy who can step up. Hopefully Cassius can help there too. We think he can help us but we'll see as we go along and how we can stay healthy."
Mike Tomlin also said after their mandatory minicamp practice today that "there's not a lot of depth at outside linebacker" and that it's a "position to keep an eye on," according to Nick Farabaugh of Steelers Now.
Tomlin also said that Highsmith must continue his upward trajectory and that before you talk about a "dynamic duo" there need to be two "serious varsity players" at outside linebacker.
Judging by Butler and Tomlin's comments, it wouldn't be surprising at all to see the Steelers sign a veteran outside linebacker at some point before the start of the 2021 regular season.