Steelers Sign Kwon Alexander – In a surprising turn of events, Pittsburgh Steelers’ fullback Monte ‘The Mullet’ Pottebaum has decided to retire from professional football. Pottebaum, who joined the Steelers as an undrafted free agent after the 2023 NFL Draft, had been expected to compete as the team’s fullback for the upcoming season. However, just as training camp was underway at Saint Vincent College, the announcement of his retirement was made, leaving the team with an open spot on their 90-man roster.
The Steelers Look to Connor Heyward for Fullback Duties
With Pottebaum’s sudden retirement, the Steelers will now turn their attention to Connor Heyward as the primary option at fullback. In recent years, the utilization of fullbacks has diminished in the NFL, and Heyward’s versatility as a player makes him a perfect fit for the role. The team believes that Heyward’s skill set aligns well with their requirements, and they are eager to see him take on the responsibilities of the position during the upcoming season.
Steelers Sign Kwon Alexander
In a positive development for the Steelers, they have successfully secured a deal with veteran linebacker Kwon Alexander. The one-year agreement will see Alexander donning the black and gold in the 2023 season. Alexander, a former Pro Bowler, brings a wealth of experience to the team, having been a standout performer during his tenure with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, San Francisco 49ers, New Orleans Saints, and New York Jets.
A Look at Kwon Alexander’s Journey
Drafted in the fourth round of the 2015 NFL Draft, Alexander’s career has been marked by moments of brilliance and setbacks due to injuries. In 2017, he earned a well-deserved Pro Bowl selection after leading the league with an impressive 108 solo tackles. His contribution to the 49ers’ successful run to the Super Bowl in 2019 showcased his impact as a formidable linebacker.
Overcoming Injury Challenges
While Alexander’s talent is undeniable, injuries have unfortunately limited his playing time and impacted his performance. During the 2018-19 season, he played in just 14 games due to knee and chest injuries. A torn Achilles prematurely ended his 2021 season after only 12 games. However, Alexander remains determined to overcome these challenges and make a significant impact on the Steelers defense in the upcoming season.
Steelers’ Overhaul at Inside Linebacker Position
The Steelers have undergone significant changes in their inside linebacker corps this offseason. Parting ways with Robert Spillane, Devin Bush, and Myles Jack, the team sought to revamp the position by signing free agents Cole Holcomb and Elandon Roberts, as well as acquiring Tanner Muse. These new additions, along with the potential inclusion of Kwon Alexander, are expected to bolster the Steelers’ defense and provide fresh dynamics to the team’s strategies.
In conclusion, the Pittsburgh Steelers’ recent developments have showcased both surprises and promising acquisitions. While the retirement of Monte Pottebaum leaves a gap in the fullback position, the team is excited about Connor Heyward’s potential to fill that role. Additionally, the addition of Kwon Alexander adds experience and talent to the linebacker corps, strengthening the team’s defensive capabilities. As the 2023 NFL regular season approaches, Steelers fans eagerly await the performance of their revamped lineup and hope for a successful campaign on the gridiron.