Patrick Queen had multiple reasons for choosing to sign with the Pittsburgh Steelers, one of which was the opportunity to play alongside established Pro Bowlers such as Cam Hayward, T.J. Watt, and Minkah Fitzpatrick. However, another significant factor behind Queen’s decision was his desire to demonstrate his ability to lead from the heart of the defense.
When asked about the biggest misconception about him, the former Ravens linebacker emphasized his determination to prove that he can excel independently. “I’d probably say that I can’t do it on my own,” Queen expressed to Steelers.com’s Missi Matthews. “I think everybody thinks that I need a running mate that’s better than me to be able to do stuff. The biggest thing for me now is just going out and proving that I can be that guy, that vocal, dominant leader that everyone looks up to.”
During his tenure with the Ravens, Queen partnered with fellow middle linebacker Roquan Smith, who had previously showcased his skills with the Chicago Bears. Together, they formed one of the NFL’s most formidable middle linebacker duos. While Smith earned All-Pro recognition in consecutive seasons, Queen earned his first Pro Bowl selection in 2023.
Reflecting on his time with Smith, Queen praised his former teammate as a “great dude” and an inspirational leader both on and off the field. “Vocal leader. Passionate guy,” Queen remarked. “Just seeing how he plays every single down, every single day, practice, film, the way he goes in the cafeteria and greets everybody. Just an all-around guy.”
Queen expressed gratitude for the lessons learned from Smith, acknowledging their valuable discussions about their shared experiences. “There’s so much I learned from that guy,” Queen affirmed. “I am thankful for him, and he knows that. We talk about it. There’s so much stuff that I could go on (saying) about that guy.”
The Steelers have made a significant investment in Queen, signing him to a three-year, $41 million contract, signaling their belief in his potential to be a cornerstone player in Pittsburgh. A former first-round pick in the 2020 draft, Queen has been a consistent starter, appearing in all 67 regular-season games for the Ravens. Last season, he showcased his versatility and impact on the field, tallying impressive numbers with 133 tackles, 3.5 sacks, six passes defended, an interception, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery.
While the Steelers’ offseason moves have garnered attention, including the acquisition of future Hall of Famer JJ Watt, Watt himself believes that Queen’s addition shouldn’t be overlooked.
Watt has emphasized the significance of Queen’s arrival, highlighting the Steelers’ efforts to assemble playmakers at every level of their defense, including Minkah Fitzpatrick, T.J. Watt, Cameron Heyward, and Alex Highsmith. With defensive coordinator Joey Porter also contributing to the mix, the Steelers appear to be building a formidable defensive unit.
Watt suggested that the Steelers’ aggressive approach in the offseason reflects their determination to capitalize on the prime years of their top players, particularly on defense. Acknowledging the team’s recent postseason shortcomings, Watt sees the Steelers’ flurry of moves as a bold statement of intent to compete at the highest level. As they aim to make a deeper playoff run, the Steelers are banking on their new acquisitions, including Queen, to help lead the charge.
Queen’s signing draws parallels to the Steelers’ past success with free agent acquisitions like James Farrior in 2002. Farrior’s impact was instrumental in Pittsburgh’s Super Bowl victories, and Queen undoubtedly aspires to leave a similar mark during his tenure with the Steelers, aiming to contribute to their pursuit of championship glory in the black and gold.