The Pittsburgh Steelers continue to be active after their disappointing Week 11 loss to the Cleveland Browns. The coaching staff has watched their linebacker depth evaporate over the last few weeks. In a span of two games, Kwon Alexander and Cole Holcomb both suffered season-ending injuries. The team promoted Mykal Walker to the 53-man roster for Week 11, but they are now bringing in more help.
Walker started against the Browns and played 63 (84%) defensive snaps in the loss. After Mark Robinson played 41 defensive snaps in Week 10, he didn't see the field there this past weekend. This signing continues to show the team's lack of confidence in the second-year man, as it seems like he's not quite ready for an extended role. According to ESPN 's Adam Schefter, the Steelers are signing veteran linebacker Blake Martinez to their 53-man roster from the Carolina Panthers' practice squad.
Steelers are signing veteran NFL LB Blake Martinez off the Panthers’ practice squad and on to their 53-man roster, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 21, 2023
Similar to Walker, Martinez brings plenty of experience to the linebacker room. He's started 78 games in his NFL career, led by 706 total tackles. Most recently, he appeared in four games for the Las Vegas Raiders in 2022, which included two starts. He hasn't been played a full season since 2020 with the New York Giants, so he will be just a temporary signing for Pittsburgh.
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