After spending the last season with the Las Vegas Raiders, Elandon Roberts entered free agency once again this offseason. The Pittsburgh Steelers, who have faced challenges at the linebacker position, might find value in re-signing Roberts, especially with his former defensive coordinator Patrick Graham now part of the Steelers’ coaching staff. Christian Kuntz, the team’s long snapper, has expressed hope for the two former teammates to reunite in Pittsburgh.
Kuntz’s Strong Support for Bringing Roberts Back
Christian Kuntz voiced his enthusiasm about the prospect of Roberts returning during his podcast on Thursday. He said,
If I’m getting into a fight, and I gotta call one person, it literally might be E-Rob. Like, I think I’m calling E-Rob,
and added,
I hope we get him back, I know he’s a free agent. I know the DC we signed, Patrick Graham, is close with E-Rob from Vegas, so I’m hoping E-Rob comes back. ‘Cause he was one of the better teammates I’ve had in my career.
Roberts’s On-Field Contributions and Role
In his single season with the Raiders, Roberts maintained his reputation as a strong run defender, finishing with 90 tackles, nearly doubling his total from the previous year. He recorded six tackles for loss while demonstrating reliability by avoiding missed tackles. However, his pass coverage remains a drawback, having allowed completions on 17 of 22 targets for 218 yards and a passer rating of 122.9, underscoring his primary strength as a run-stopper rather than a coverage specialist.
Steelers’ Linebacker Challenges Highlight Roberts’s Potential Impact
Pittsburgh’s defense allowed an average of 113.1 rushing yards per game last season, indicating an area in need of improvement. Although Patrick Queen showed progress in run defense, his future with the team is uncertain under the new coaching staff. Payton Wilson has also yet to firmly establish himself in this role. Meanwhile, the Steelers retain Malik Harrison, who was acquired last March during free agency, likely limiting Roberts’s return chances but not eliminating the possibility.
Possible Return Could Help Address Defensive Needs
Overall, Roberts remains a noteworthy candidate for Pittsburgh as they aim to reinforce their run defense at both the linebacker and defensive line spots. With questions lingering about the returning players and the influence of Patrick Graham’s return as defensive coordinator, Roberts’s experience and connection to Graham may increase the likelihood of a reunion this offseason.
