Steelers to Sign Ravens LB Patrick Queen
The Baltimore Ravens didn't pick up linebacker Patrick Queen's fifth-year option on his rookie contract.
But it's not because they didn't want to retain his services. Football is first and foremost a business, and as such, money comes into play in situations like that. Baltimore is on the verge of salary cap hell and the $12-plus million payday for Queen in 2024 was just too much to eat.
But a career year for Queen made him one of the most desirable free agent linebackers on the market this offseason, and now the former LSU product is reportedly heading to a Ravens AFC North rival.
Per Marcus Spears of ESPN, Queen intends to sign with the Steelers once the new league year starts on Wednesday. The deal is for a reported three years and $41 million.
Last season, Queen tallied 133 total tackles with one interception and 3.5 sacks. Since arriving in Baltimore through the 2020 NFL Draft (No. 6 overall) he has registered 454 total tackles with four picks and 13.5 sacks.
The Steelers get the best version of Queen off a career year, and now the Ravens will have to face him twice a year with their revamped offense. After agreeing to terms with former Titans running back Derrick Henry, the Baltimore offense boasts a list of playmakers.
