Steelers LB Patrick Queen ‘wasn’t wanted back’ by Ravens: ‘I will have feelings’ on Sunday
A Pittsburgh Steelers’ $41 million linebacker expressed unbridled joy at joining the team, pledging to chase Super Bowl LX with his “second family.” His commitment fuels Pittsburgh’s championship aspirations.
The star, signed in 2024, shared his passion on Steelers Now Podcast. “I turned down more lucrative offers to join the Steelers,” he said, “but 2024 was a tough year for me. Though I didn’t meet expectations, T.J. Watt always encouraged me and urged teammates to embrace me. I love this team; it’s my second family.”
Patrick Queen, 27, inked a three-year, $41 million deal from Baltimore, per Spotrac. Recording 129 tackles in 2024, his PFF grade of 56.8 reflected struggles adapting to Pittsburgh’s system, per Pro-Football-Reference.com.
T.J. Watt, with 11.5 sacks in 2024, championed Queen’s integration. “Patrick brings fire,” Watt said, fostering his bond with Alex Highsmith, per The Athletic. Queen’s leadership strengthens the sixth-ranked defense.
Queen’s 2024 challenges, including a transition to the “green dot” role, didn’t dim his enthusiasm. “Pittsburgh’s culture is unmatched,” he told ESPN, contrasting his Ravens tenure marked by Roquan Smith’s shadow.
With $45 million in cap space, Pittsburgh’s 2025 roster, featuring Aaron Rodgers and D.K. Metcalf, eyes Super Bowl LX. Queen’s 470 career tackles position him as a defensive cornerstone, per NFL.com.
His resolve, amid a revamped lineup with Za’Darius Smith, uplifts a 10-7 squad. “This is home,” Queen said, echoing Mike Tomlin’s vision, per Steelers.com.
As Pittsburgh gears up for their September 7 opener against the Jets, Queen’s passion drives their title chase. Can he ignite a Super Bowl run? Stay tuned to ESPN!