Steelers Likely to Keep Star LB Patrick Queen Amid Trade Rumors

Pittsburgh Steelers insider reports team is unlikely to trade the two-time Pro Bowler despite interest from other teams.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 2:51pm

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The Pittsburgh Steelers are expected to keep star linebacker Patrick Queen despite trade rumors surrounding the 26-year-old. Steelers insider Mike DeFabo reported that while Queen's name has come up in trade discussions, the team is unlikely to actually move him. Queen is entering the final year of his contract and is a key part of the Steelers' defense, which new head coach Mike McCarthy is excited to work with.

Why it matters

Patrick Queen is a talented young linebacker who has made the Pro Bowl twice in his career so far. Keeping him on the roster is crucial for the Steelers as they look to compete for an AFC North title under new head coach Mike McCarthy. Losing Queen would be a significant blow to their defensive unit.

The details

Multiple reports have indicated that the Steelers have received trade inquiries about Patrick Queen this offseason. However, Steelers insider Mike DeFabo believes a trade is unlikely to happen, stating that Queen "remains the do-everything, three-down backer who will wear the green dot and call the defense." DeFabo expects the Steelers to deploy a similar linebacker rotation as in previous seasons, with Queen as the centerpiece.

  • Queen is entering his seventh NFL season in 2026.
  • Queen is in the final year of his three-year, $41 million contract.

The players

Patrick Queen

A 26-year-old linebacker who has made the Pro Bowl twice in his career so far with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Mike DeFabo

A Steelers insider who reports for The Athletic.

Mike McCarthy

The new head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who is excited to work with the team's talented defense.

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What they’re saying

“While reports surfaced that Queen could be on the trading block, my sense is that was more rumor than reality. Queen remains the do-everything, three-down backer who will wear the green dot and call the defense.”

— Mike DeFabo, Steelers Insider

“Defense wins championships. I'm really excited about the defense, great seeing Alex here. The history of the Steelers defense and staying with the 3-4 is important as far as the origin of it, and that's something we can build off.”

— Mike McCarthy, Head Coach

What’s next

The Steelers will need to decide whether to extend Queen's contract or let him play out the final year of his current deal in 2026.

The takeaway

Despite trade rumors, the Steelers appear committed to keeping star linebacker Patrick Queen as a key part of their defensive unit under new head coach Mike McCarthy. Retaining Queen's services will be crucial as the team looks to compete for an AFC North title in the upcoming season.