Here are 3 underrated defenders Steelers fans should keep an eye on during training camp this year.
Steelers training camp is just around the corner — and there are plenty of unsung heroes for fans to keep their eyes on, specifically on defense. From T.J. Watt's protégé to an inside linebacker returning from injury, here are three of the most underrated defenders to watch closely in Latrobe.
OLB Nick Herbig
Herbig is one of the most underrated edge rushers in the NFL — but it's hard to imagine he stays that way for long. His teammates regard him as one of the hardest-working players on the roster, a true sponge of the game — and it doesn't hurt when your mentor is T.J. Watt. Expect Herbig to turn heads early at training camp and potentially compete for more pass-rush opportunities in 2025.
NT Keeanu Benton
The Steelers went to great lengths to rebuild their defensive line this offseason — with new faces stealing some of the spotlight from third-year nose tackle Keeanu Benton. Steelers rookies DT Derrick Harmon and DT Yahya Black are massive pieces of the retooled unit, but Benton has steadily improved each year in the NFL and could show signs of a Year 3 breakout at training camp.
LB Cole Holcomb
When healthy, Cole Holcomb is one of the most efficient linebackers in the league — showing real promise with Pittsburgh before a knee injury set him back almost two seasons. Many expect big things out of LBs Patrick Queen and Payton Wilson this upcoming season — but Holcomb's potential return to form at training camp could force the Steelers to begin planning to use a three-man rotation more often than not.
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This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers training camp: 3 underrated defenders to watch in Latrobe
Category: Football
