Steelers Add A Skilled Veteran To The Defensive Front

Defense has been the calling card of the Pittsburgh Steelers, especially last season.

Defensive Player of the Year T.J. Watt led the league in sacks, tying Michael Strahan‘s record of 22.5.

They also ranked ninth in passing yards allowed at 215.1 per game.

However, they gave up 23.4 points per game and were the worst in terms of run defense.

Therefore, they need reinforcements despite having Tyson Alualu, Chris Wormley, and Cameron Heyward upfront.

Former Bengals’ DT Larry Ogunjobi has signed a one-year deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers, per source.

Ogunjobi now will have played for the Browns, Bengals and Steelers, leaving the Ravens as the lone Ogunjobi-less AFC North team.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) June 21, 2022

ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter tweeted, “Former Bengals’ DT Larry Ogunjobi has signed a one-year deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers, per source. Ogunjobi now will have played for the Browns, Bengals, and Steelers, leaving the Ravens as the lone Ogunjobi-less AFC North team.”

It’s fascinating that Ogunjobi has made his rounds in one of the NFL’s toughest divisions.

Therefore, his knowledge of the Cincinnati Bengals and the Cleveland Browns might come in handy for the Steelers.

After playing four seasons with Cleveland, he signed a one-year deal with the Bengals.

He had 49 total tackles and seven sacks for the Bengals in 2021.

Ogunjobi also visited the New York Jets but chose to sign with the Steelers.

It’s a wise move, considering that it’s difficult to see the Jets competing for a postseason berth.

In contrast, Pittsburgh has the personnel to make another playoff push.

Stacked Steelers Roster On Defense

As Ogunjobi joins the defensive line, they will have Watt, Myles Jack, Devin Bush, and Alex Highsmith at linebacker.

Meanwhile, the Steelers made Minkah Fitzpatrick the highest-paid NFL safety, and for good reason.

Aside from helping the team’s run defense, Ogunjobi also has the ability to rush the quarterback.

If he does well in his first year in Pittsburgh, the team might give him a longer deal.