PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Steelers’ newest defensive cornerstone is wasting no time making his presence felt on and off the field. Fresh off signing a lucrative $41 million deal, the veteran linebacker spoke passionately this week about his excitement to join the storied franchise, calling his new teammates a “second family” and vowing to help bring a seventh Lombardi Trophy to Pittsburgh.
“Man, this place already feels like home,” he said after a workout at the team’s South Side facility. “The culture here is about brotherhood, accountability, and winning. I came here to chase a Super Bowl with these guys. This is my second family now.”
The Steelers targeted the linebacker early in free agency, valuing his versatility, leadership, and production. He’s coming off a strong season in which he racked up over 100 tackles, multiple sacks, and forced fumbles, showcasing his ability to stuff the run and drop back in coverage when needed. The front office hopes he can slot in seamlessly with T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, and Minkah Fitzpatrick to give Pittsburgh one of the AFC’s most dangerous defenses.
Head coach Mike Tomlin praised his new acquisition’s mindset, saying the linebacker “fits what we’re about in Pittsburgh.”
“He’s the kind of player you win with,” Tomlin said. “Tough, smart, passionate. He’s a leader. He’s not just here to collect a check—he’s here to win.”
The Steelers’ defense showed flashes of dominance last year but struggled with consistency, especially against the run. The signing is meant to shore up that weakness and give the unit more flexibility in scheme.
For the linebacker himself, the motivation goes beyond stats or accolades. He made clear that chasing Super Bowl LX—which will be played in Santa Clara, California—is his singular goal.
“I’m not here to make Pro Bowls or just get paid,” he said. “I’m here to help hang another banner in this building. That’s why you play. I want to look at these guys in the locker room and know we did everything to win it all.”
Steelers fans have responded enthusiastically, with social media lighting up over his remarks and early reports of his leadership in OTAs. As the team continues building toward training camp, there’s a growing sense in Pittsburgh that this signing could be a key piece in another championship run.