Steelers Sign Former Patriots Big Bruising Veteran Inside Linebacker

The Pittsburgh Steelers' defense has struggled out of the gate, allowing nearly 800 total yards through the first two weeks of the 2025 season. Injuries have certainly played a role, with key players Joey Porter Jr. and DeShon Elliott missing the Week 2 matchup. Additional injuries have also started to pile up, further straining the Steelers’ defensive unit and testing the depth of their roster.

Despite the injury concerns, the defensive struggles go beyond absences. The team has struggled to stop both the run and the pass, leaving fans frustrated and searching for answers. Execution, communication, and overall performance on the field have been inconsistent, and so far, the defense has not been able to meet the standards expected in Pittsburgh.

In response to the early struggles, the Steelers made a move to bolster their defense, adding a new piece to the practice squad. NFL insider Adam Schefter reported that the team signed former New England Patriots linebacker Ja’Whaun Bentley on Tuesday night. While a practice squad addition is a small step, it shows the Steelers are actively looking for ways to improve and stabilize their defense as the season progresses. 

The Steelers’ decision to sign Bentley to their practice squad is an interesting move that could provide both experience and depth to their linebacker room. Bentley already has a familiar face in Pittsburgh, as he played with recently signed Steelers safety Jabrill Peppers during their time with the Patriots. That existing connection could help Bentley acclimate quickly to the team.

Bentley brings a notable pedigree, having won a Super Bowl with New England. Over seven seasons in the NFL, all with the Patriots, he has built a steady and reliable career. He has started 68 games out of the 83 he’s been active for, showing that he has been trusted to take on a significant role throughout his career.

Steelers' New Practice Squad Addition Could Be A Sneaky Move

Bentley has been productive, especially in recent seasons. From 2021 to 2023, he recorded over 100 total tackles each season, racking up 509 tackles in his career along with 10.5 sacks. Beyond tackles and sacks, Bentley has made other impactful plays, including 21 tackles for loss, 29 quarterback hits, two interceptions, 11 passes defensed, four forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery. In 2023 alone, he added 4.5 sacks to his resume.

While Bentley isn’t a superstar or a game-changing presence, he provides solid experience and depth to the linebacker unit. For now, he will begin on the practice squad, ready to contribute if called upon. Bentley was a captain for the Patriots for three years, showing that Bill Belichick clearly viewed him as a special presence.

Even if Bentley doesn’t see the field in games during the 2025 season, his veteran experience and leadership from wearing the “C” on his jersey for three seasons should be valuable for the Steelers. It’s not a blockbuster move, but it is one that could make a subtle difference. In the NFL, small wins matter and they do add up. 

The Steelers sit at 1-1 on the 2025 season. They are coming off an ugly 31-17 loss at Acrisure Stadium to the Seahawks. If Pittsburgh wants to rebound they will have to do so playing against the Patriots at their house. Maybe Bentley and Peppers can give Pittsburgh some help. 

What do you think of the Steelers' choice to sign Ja'Whaun Bentley to their practice squad? Let us know in the comments below! Please feel free to share your Steelers takes with me on X @anthonyghalkias and follow me.

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