The Pittsburgh Steelers' 2024 season ended again in bitter disappointment with another uncompetitive playoff loss, losing 28-14 to the Baltimore Ravens. The Steelers were at one point 10-3 and leading the AFC North, but quickly lost five straight games to end their season. It was disappointing for many to go from Super Bowl contenders to a quick one-and-done team.
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Steelers' Mike Tomlin speaks with linebacker Patrick Queen during a home game in Pittsburgh.
In his first season with the Steelers, linebacker Patrick Queen worked hard to get his defense to tighten up down the stretch. He was very frustrated with his teammates not doing their jobs when it mattered most, and the team's struggles were evident as they fell apart in critical moments. Despite his best efforts, the team couldn’t overcome their late-season collapse.
On Monday, however, new details emerged thanks to Ian Rapoport about some adversity Queen was facing against his former team in the first round of the playoffs. According to insight from Rapoport, Queen was playing through a serious illness, showing immense toughness and determination despite battling through personal challenges. His commitment to the defense in such dire circumstances showcased his resilience and leadership.
Context from Saturday night: #Steelers LB Patrick Queen, who had 10 tackles, six solos, played despite having a really bad bout with the flu, source said. He received 4 IV bags before the game and went out there and played. pic.twitter.com/6b1Ej1TmdS
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 13, 2025
Playing through illness is always a testament to an athlete's toughness and determination. While some people struggle to function when sick, others push through, and for competitive professional athletes, missing a meaningful game is rarely an option. For Queen, battling through illness in such a high-stakes playoff game was a remarkable display of grit. Unfortunately, despite his best efforts and a somewhat productive performance, the defense fell short. It's likely his impact would have been even greater had he been at full health.
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Pittsburgh Steelers' DeShon Elliott and Patrick Queen making a tackle during a playoff game in Baltimore.
Queen’s commitment to receiving proper treatment and ensuring he was on the field speaks volumes about his dedication to the team. This effort will likely earn him even more respect and appreciation from Steeler Nation.
After joining the Steelers on a three-year, $41 million deal during the 2024 offseason, Queen brought high expectations, especially given his history as a standout player for a rival team. Steelers fans were thrilled to welcome him, and his determination in the face of adversity reinforces why he was such a valued addition.
Steelers' Patrick Queen Embraced The Ethos Of The Team In Year 1
In his first year with the Steelers, Queen didn’t fully meet the lofty expectations set by fans, but his performance was far from disappointing. He embraced the identity of a true Steeler, leaving his mark on the field and proving to be a valuable addition to the team. Steelers fans are optimistic about Queen’s potential to take another step forward in 2025 as he embarks on a redemption tour following the team’s bitter end to the season.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' Patrick Queen gets his defense ready for a play against the Baltimore Ravens.
The revelation that Queen was battling the flu during the playoff loss adds context to his efforts and resilience. Knowing the challenges he faced, fans are likely to give him well-deserved credit for his commitment and determination. His grit and dedication to the team, even under difficult circumstances, have only strengthened the belief that he can be an even bigger force for the Steelers moving forward.
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