Steelers asking a ton of backup linebackers vs Chargers

Where will the Steelers pass rush come from this weekend?

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Listening to Pittsburgh Steelers defensive coordinator Keith Butler, it really doesn’t sound like star linebacker T.J. Watt will play this week against the Los Angeles Chargers. Watt injured his knee and hip in Sunday’s tie with the Detroit Lions.

At the same time, I didn’t get an overwhelming feeling of confidence from Butler about the prospects who will be playing in Watt’s place either.

“Whether they’re ready or not, they’re going to have to,” Watt said. “We can’t wait on them. They have to come out& know what we ask them to do.”

The Steelers have Derrek Tuszka and Taco Charlton as the only viable options to start opposite Alex Highsmith and this isn’t ideal. Pittsburgh traded away Melvin Ingram just before the trade deadline leaving a void at the position. This will be a huge test not only for the players but Butler as well to see if he can find a way to scheme the defense to get press on Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert.

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