Steelers Trade For Pass Rusher Preston Smith

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Post on Nov 06, 2024

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Steelers Bolster Pass Rush with Trade for Veteran Preston Smith

The Pittsburgh Steelers have made a significant move to strengthen their defense, acquiring veteran pass rusher Preston Smith from the Washington Commanders in a trade. This move comes as the Steelers look to address a glaring weakness on their roster, with their pass rush struggling throughout the 2022 season.

Smith Brings Proven Production to Pittsburgh

A former second-round pick in the 2015 NFL Draft, Smith has been a consistent presence on the Commanders’ defense, racking up impressive sack totals throughout his career. He has recorded at least 8 sacks in each of the last five seasons, including a career-high 12.5 sacks in 2018. This consistent production makes him a valuable asset for the Steelers, who desperately need a reliable edge rusher to complement the young talent already on the roster.

Addressing a Key Need for the Steelers

The Steelers’ defense struggled to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks last season. Their 37 sacks ranked 19th in the NFL, a far cry from the dominant pass rushing unit that has been a staple of their recent history. Smith’s arrival instantly improves the Steelers' pass rush, adding a veteran presence and a proven ability to disrupt opposing offenses.

Impact on Steelers' Defense

Smith’s presence will immediately benefit the entire Steelers' defense. His ability to generate pressure on the quarterback will create more opportunities for the Steelers' secondary to make plays. This will also allow the Steelers to utilize more creative blitzing schemes, further improving the overall effectiveness of their defense.

What Does the Trade Mean for the Commanders?

This trade marks a significant change for the Commanders, who are in the midst of a rebuild. By trading Smith, they free up cap space and open up opportunities for younger players to step into larger roles. The Commanders are likely hoping to find a more long-term solution at the edge rusher position through the draft or free agency.

Overall Impact

The Steelers' trade for Preston Smith is a strong move that addresses a key need on their roster. Smith brings valuable experience and proven production to a Steelers’ defense looking to return to its dominant form. This move has the potential to significantly improve the Steelers' chances of competing for a playoff spot in the highly competitive AFC North.