The Pittsburgh Steelers made significant moves this offseason, one of the most notable being the acquisition of former Baltimore Ravens linebacker Patrick Queen. They secured him with a three-year deal worth $41 million.
Queen is coming off an impressive 2023 season, where he dominated for the Ravens and earned a Pro Bowl nod. He was one of the most sought-after linebackers in free agency, and the Steelers' ability to sign him not only strengthens their defense but also weakens their AFC North rivals, the Ravens. With Queen now joining the league's most expensive defense, the Steelers boast playmakers at every position, and Queen is eager to make his mark in Pittsburgh.
“From the 15 teams that I was talking to it came down to like five at the end. It was five teams in the mix. Some were offering some seventeens. I had a chance to either go win or a chance to get paid. For me, the difference was like four or five million. I’m looking at like I have never been on a losing team before. I also don’t want to be part of anything being rebuilt because I’m trying to win now.”
Queen was in discussions with nearly half the league about potentially joining their teams. He eventually narrowed his choices down to five, with the Steelers among them. He revealed that he sacrificed roughly five million dollars to ensure he was joining a team in win-now mode.
“I am really just trying to win right now and get that out of the way. I will get paid later.”
The Steelers changed a lot this offseason to ensure they are a team built for winning now. Queen revealed that, despite his young age, he doesn’t want to find himself chasing a Super Bowl later in his career. His current focus is on winning a Super Bowl now in Pittsburgh, with the mindset of getting paid well towards the end of his career.
Queen's signing marks the most expensive free-agent acquisition in Steelers history since the NFL adopted true free agency. The Steelers, not typically known for spending heavily in free agency, broke tradition for Queen, seeing him as a pivotal addition to their defense.
Despite his financial sacrifice, Queen will still be well-compensated, and his performance justifies the investment. In his four seasons with the Ravens, Queen amassed 454 tackles, 13.5 sacks, four interceptions, 15 passes defensed, five forced fumbles, and six fumble recoveries, including a pick-six. He is known for his hard-hitting style, speed, and ability to drop back in coverage, making him a significant boost to an already formidable defense.
Steelers Defense In 2024 Will Be Among League's Best
In 2024, the Steelers' defense is not only wealthy but also exceptionally talented, featuring playmakers at every position. Queen was drawn to the Steelers because of their winning culture under Mike Tomlin, despite the team not having won a playoff game since the 2016 season. Queen hopes to help change that in 2024.
The Steelers' defense has the potential to be the best in the league, with stars like Minkah Fitzpatrick, TJ Watt and Cameron Heyward. Although fans are waiting to see if Heyward will get the new deal he desires, it is likely he will still be playing for the Steelers in 2024. The secondary, linebacker corps, and defensive line are all stacked with talent. With the addition of Queen, the Steelers' defense will be one to watch this season.
