Steelers rumors: WR sends cryptic tweet, veteran LB signed and more
Steelers add another inside linebacker in Nick Kwiatkoski
This offseason saw the Steelers add some physicality to a defense that finished ninth in the league vs. the run but was very inconsistent in this aspect. Gone are Myles Jack, Devin Bush and Robert Spillane. Enter Elandon Roberts, Cole Holcomb and Tanner Muse. Now add another veteran to the mix.
After a tryout through minicamp, the Steelers plan on signing LB Nick Kwiatkoski. He played collegiately at West Virginia and his high school football at Bethel Park.
— Colin Dunlap (@colin_dunlap) June 19, 2023
A fourth-round pick of the Chicago Bears back in 2016, inside linebacker Nick Kwiatkoski is yet another example of the club’s philosophy this offseason. The Steelers have bolstered their offensive line in recent years and that continued in 2023 with the signing of guard Isaac Seumalo (Eagles) and the first-round selection of tackle Roderick Jones (Georgia). The Steelers want to pound the rock this season.
Conversely, the club wants to do a much better job of stopping the better offensive lines in the league from pushing their defense around.
Kwiatkoski spent four seasons in the Windy City before signing with Las Vegas Raiders in 2020. His best NFL campaign came in his first year with the Silver and Black. He made a career-best 12 starts and led the Raiders with 81 total tackles despite missing four games. He played in only eight games in 2021 and did not start any contests.
Kwiatkoski played 12 games for the Falcons this past season, with all seven of his tackles coming on special teams. He adds experienced depth to the defense and kick coverage units.