The Pittsburgh Steelers are bringing back a familiar face in their linebacker room with the signing of veteran Elandon Roberts to a one-year contract. The 32-year-old inside linebacker returns to the team after spending the 2025 season with the Las Vegas Raiders.
Roberts was a key contributor to the Steelers' defense during his previous stint with the team from 2023 to 2024. In 33 games, he recorded 147 tackles, 15 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, two passes defended, and one forced fumble.
The Steelers' inside linebacker group is led by Patrick Queen and Payton Wilson, and Roberts adds much-needed depth to the unit. He joins a team that is gearing up for the preseason, with their first game taking place at Acrisure Stadium against the Green Bay Packers on Thursday at 7 p.m.
Roberts' experience playing for the Raiders last year under current Steelers defensive coordinator Patrick Graham should serve him well in his return to Pittsburgh. He started all but one game for the Raiders and totaled 90 tackles and six tackles for loss.
The Steelers are looking to rebuild their defense after a disappointing 2025 season. The signing of Roberts is a step in the right direction, but it remains to be seen how he will fit into the team's plans.
The Steelers' preseason schedule is packed, with games against the Packers, the Chicago Bears, and the New England Patriots in the coming weeks. With the regular season just around the corner, the team will be looking to get their roster settled and ready for the challenge ahead.
Roberts' signing is a welcome addition to the Steelers' linebacker corps, and fans will be eager to see him back in action. The team's first preseason game against the Packers is just days away, and it will be interesting to see how Roberts performs in his return to the Steelers.
Source: Yahoo Sports