A Look at the Linebackers

Pittsburgh has always been known as a team with great Linebackers. Last Year, Joey Porter was sent packing to a 1-win team, we drafted 2 linebackers with our first 2 picks and we witnessed the emergence of the beast that is named James Harrison.

So, how do the Steelers follow all that up. They had solid linebacker play as usual, but with the departing of CLark Haggans, there are now questions.
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Linebackers: A-
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Outside LB's


(Ouch Ed Reed... Ouch)

1) James Harrison
2) LaMarr Woodley
3) Lawrence Timmons
4) Bruce Davis

- Harrison became a force last season while destroying offensive units all over the NFL. He brought unreal strength and speed to the table and had one of the best games by a LB in NFL history on a Monday night against the Ravens. Expect the beast to be hunting all season long this campaign.

- LaMarr Woodley seems to be the filler for the departed Clark Haggans, even though he was taken after Lawrence Timmons in the draft. Woodley has incredible speed and moves quickly for being so big. He could be a big piece to this defense.

- Lawrence Timmons has been impressive in camp so far, but still has not won any sort of starting job. Coach Tomlin has said that Timmons will play more this season though and that is only a good thing. He is very strong and can hit like James Harrison. Also, it has been rumored that Timmons might be moved to the inside, to replace Larry Foote.

- I know I already listed Davis as a Defensive End and thats because ESPN had Davis listed there. Supposedly he can play both positions, even though he played a lot of LB in college. I think he probably feels more comfortable at the LB position and could be suitable backup on the outside.
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Inside LB's:



1) James Farrior
2) Larry Foote

- James Farrior has been the leader of the defense for the last few years now. He is the ILB, so he controls things. He is in no way going to lose his starting position and should be another big part of the success that could be had by the defense.

- Larry Foote has kind of flew under the radar and has never felt the media attention that the other defensive players have for some reason. Now he is under more pressure than ever, as it seems that Lawrence Timmons is going to try to beat him for his starting job and move to the inside. It will be interesting to see if Foote is able to keep his job and have a productive season.
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- Tomorrow I will talk about the secondary and the special teams. T
- Friday I will give a preview of the Steelers/Eagles game.
- Saturday I hope to give a recap of the Steelers/Eagles game.

We'll see. No promises.