Patrick Queen’s position with the Pittsburgh Steelers had been uncertain heading into the 2026 campaign, especially with his salary set to impact the team’s cap by over $17 million. However, on Tuesday at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine, Steelers General Manager Omar Khan spoke openly to local media, including Steelers Depot’s Joe Clark, reaffirming the organization’s commitment to keeping Queen on the roster.
Yeah, PQ’s [Patrick Queen] been good for us. He likes being here,
Khan said.
We like having him part of the team, and part of the process is gonna be for him to get to know us, us to get to know him. But I’m excited about having him around.
– Omar Khan, Pittsburgh Steelers GM
Evaluating Queen’s Performance and Challenges
Queen’s first two seasons with Pittsburgh have drawn mixed reviews, especially after the Steelers’ disappointing exit in the AFC Wild Card round against the Houston Texans. The team’s continued struggles to stop the run reignited questions about whether Queen fits into Pittsburgh’s defensive future. According to tracking by Steelers Depot, Queen has missed 50 tackles over the past two years and has managed just one interception and three forced fumbles since joining via free agency before the 2024 season.
Despite flashes as a pass rusher, Queen has faced difficulties consistently pressuring quarterbacks and has often been a target in coverage. His performance has not yet matched expectations for a linebacker commanding a $17 million annual salary. Nonetheless, Pittsburgh’s leadership values him as a key communicator and central figure in the defensive unit.
Potential for a Defensive Reset Under Patrick Graham
The prospect of a scheme revamp offers Queen an opportunity to rebound. He had voiced concerns about the previous defensive setup, but with Patrick Graham now stepping in as defensive coordinator, Pittsburgh’s defense could see significant adjustments that better utilize Queen’s strengths. His experience and playing nearly every snap make him a critical piece as Graham implements new strategies.
Queen was an All-Pro performer in Baltimore before joining the Steelers, highlighting his capability when in the right system. While tackling problems persist, maintaining Queen on the roster suggests Pittsburgh hopes he will regain his prior form and contribute effectively within the new defensive framework.
Financial Position and Future Outlook
The Steelers are currently in a manageable salary cap situation, which reduces the urgency to make drastic roster cuts to create space. Given this, Queen appears secure on Pittsburgh’s roster for the near term, supported by Khan’s positive remarks at the combine. However, the nature of the NFL means roster dynamics can shift rapidly, keeping some uncertainty around long-term outcomes.
Queen’s presence offers stability and leadership at linebacker as the team looks to improve defensive performances next season. His ability to adjust to Patrick Graham’s defense will be critical in determining how his role evolves and whether he can fulfill the potential that made him a sought-after player in free agency.
