NFL Writer Suggests Steelers Cut Pro Bowl Linebacker

The Pittsburgh Steelers may need to part ways with Patrick Queen to free up cap space for offensive upgrades.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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NFL.com's Matt Okada has suggested that the Pittsburgh Steelers should consider cutting linebacker Patrick Queen during the upcoming offseason. Okada believes the Steelers could save $13.3 million by releasing Queen before June 1, which could help the team build an offense to new head coach Mike McCarthy's specifications.

Why it matters

The Steelers are set to undergo several changes this offseason, including the departure of longtime head coach Mike Tomlin. With a new coach coming in, the team may need to make difficult roster decisions to reshape the roster, especially on the defensive side of the ball.

The details

Queen, a 26-year-old linebacker, had a strong start with the Steelers in 2024, earning a Pro Bowl selection. However, his performance has declined slightly this season. Okada suggests the Steelers could also consider cutting cornerback Jalen Ramsey, which would save $19.5 million, but notes Ramsey's move to safety and leadership on defense may earn him a roster spot over Queen.

  • Queen has been in the NFL since 2020, spending his first four seasons with the Baltimore Ravens before joining the Steelers in 2024.
  • Queen earned a Pro Bowl selection in 2024, his first season with the Steelers.

The players

Patrick Queen

A 26-year-old linebacker who has played for the Pittsburgh Steelers since 2024, earning a Pro Bowl selection that year but experiencing a slight decline in performance this season.

Jalen Ramsey

A cornerback for the Pittsburgh Steelers who has recently moved to safety, earning a Pro Bowl nod and providing valuable leadership on the defense.

Mike Tomlin

The former head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, known for his defensive mindset and the players he brought in to fit his defensive scheme.

Mike McCarthy

The new head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who will be tasked with building an offense to his specifications.

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What they’re saying

“The Steelers are in good cap shape, so this might not be a necessary move, but cutting Queen before June 1 would save Pittsburgh $13.3 million to help build an offense to new head coach Mike McCarthy's specifications.”

— Matt Okada, NFL.com Writer (NFL.com)

What’s next

The Steelers will need to evaluate their roster and make difficult decisions this offseason, including potentially parting ways with Patrick Queen or Jalen Ramsey to free up cap space and build an offense that fits their new head coach's vision.

The takeaway

The Steelers' defensive-minded approach under Mike Tomlin may need to shift as the team transitions to a new head coach. Roster decisions like cutting Queen or Ramsey could be necessary to provide the offensive support the team needs to compete in the AFC.