The Pittsburgh Steelers made a major splash in the free agency market ahead of the 2024 NFL season. That move was to sign former Baltimore Ravens Pro Bowl linebacker Patrick Queen to a three-year deal worth $41 million. Queen arrived in Pittsburgh with high expectations, and while he delivered a solid first season, there were moments when fans expected more from the highly touted linebacker.
One of the biggest areas of concern was Queen's inability to finish plays that could have resulted in interceptions. Some of the missed opportunities were difficult, but others seemed within reach. Queen has always held himself to a high standard, and he has admitted that he should have come down with more takeaways throughout the season.
According to Steelers insider Mike DeFabo of The Athletic, Queen spent the offseason working hard to improve in that specific area. He has focused on sharpening his hands and ball skills in hopes of becoming a more complete and dangerous presence on the field. With his athletic ability and dedication to improvement, Queen is looking to make a stronger impact in 2025 and live up to the expectations that came with his high-profile signing.
"Signed to be the quarterback of the Steelers’ defense, Queen was solid last year but is looking to produce more splash," DeFabo said. "I noticed him often working on the JUGs machine by himself while the offense was on the field during OTAs and minicamp."
Many Ravens fans, along with several media pundits, have long believed that Queen’s performance in Baltimore was significantly boosted by playing alongside All-Pro linebacker Roquan Smith. After Smith arrived in 2022, Queen appeared to elevate his game, which led to speculation that much of his success was a result of Smith’s presence and leadership.
That narrative only grew stronger when Queen surprised many by signing with the rival Steelers, reportedly accepting less money in order to join a team he felt was the right fit.
The move immediately raised questions. Analysts and fans alike wondered how Queen would perform without Smith next to him, and whether he could continue to play at a high level in a different defensive system. His first season in Pittsburgh was productive, but it did not fully settle the debate.
While Queen brought energy, toughness, and leadership to the Steelers’ defense, some critics still questioned whether he could be a true difference-maker on his own. As the 2025 season approaches, Queen appears determined to answer those questions once and for all. He has been focused on refining the weaker parts of his game and is aiming to prove that he can be the centerpiece of a defense, not just a complementary piece.
With a full season in Pittsburgh under his belt and high expectations heading into his second year with the team, Queen is looking to remind everyone of the talent, drive, and potential that made him one of the top free agents on the market.
Steelers' Defense Absolutely Has To Improve In 2025
The Steelers defense was expected to be a major strength for the team in 2024. Early in the season and even through the midpoint, Pittsburgh’s defense looked like one of the most dominant units in the league. TJ Watt was consistently overpowering opposing offenses, and Cam Heyward played some of the best football of his career. Despite these standout performances, the defense struggled to make a difference in the moments that mattered most.
That reality was disappointing for Steelers fans, especially knowing this unit is one of the highest-paid defenses in the NFL. The team understands that significant improvement is necessary heading into 2025. Queen is preparing to play a key role in those efforts, with a clear focus on elevating the defense and helping Pittsburgh become a true contender on that side of the ball. Queen believes it starts with him getting more splash plays.
