The Pittsburgh Steelers had their lowest-ranked defense in over 30 years this past season. So they’re bringing in a veteran linebacker who they hope can turn things around.
On Friday, the Steelers announced that linebacker Robert Spillane has signed a one-year restricted free agent tender. Spillane returns to the Steelers for a fourth straight season, where he plays on both defense and special teams.
Last year saw Spillane get the most playing time of his young career. The former Western Michigan linebacker had 56 tackles in 14 games and had four starts which mostly came towards the end of the season.
Spillane has played three of his four NFL seasons in Pittsburgh. He has 112 tackles, two sacks, six tackles for loss and three QB hits in 34 games.
LB Robert Spillane has signed a one-year restricted free agent tender. @BordasLaw
— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) April 8, 2022
The Pittsburgh Steelers might be heading into a year of some uncertainty. Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger is retired after over 15 years as their starting quarterback.
The Steelers finished in the bottom half of the NFL in both offense and defense last year for the first time since the 1990s. Despite that, they still managed to finish with a 9-7-1 record and made the playoffs.
Getting the quarterback position solidified will be the top priority of the team before the season starts. But straightening out the defense will also play a huge factor in getting back to the postseason.
How much of an impact might Robert Spillane have on the Steelers returning to the playoffs next year?
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