Pittsburgh Steelers Sign LB Arthur Moats
By Kim Myers
Sep 29, 2013; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Marlon Brown (14) is tackled by Buffalo Bills outside linebacker Arthur Moats (52) during the first half at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports
Pro Football Talk is reporting that the Steelers have added a linebacker to Steelers defense. Former Buffalo Bills linebacker Arthur Moats is reportedly headed to Pittsburgh.
Moats was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the sixth round of the 2010 NFL Draft out of James Madison. He has a total of 141 career tackles, 5 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles. You might remember him from the hit on then Minnesota Vikings quarterback Brett Favre he delivered which ended Favre’s consecutive starts streak the following game.
Michael David Smith on Pro Football Talk explains that Moats started 12 games last season for the Bills as a weakside linebacker but is versatile enough to play either inside or outside for the Steelers.
It’s unclear now whether this keeps the door closed on a possible James Harrison return to the Black & Gold but it’s almost a certainty now that Larry Foote will not be considered for a return at all. Moats provides some experience and depth to the linebacker corps.
Moats can be matched inside along with Lawrence Timmons with Vince Williams and the returning Sean Spence in the mix as well. Moats can also serve to provide depth to the outside where Jason Worilds and Jarvis Jones will be starting this season.
Fun fact about Moats is his personal catch phrase, “Don’t Cross The Moats.” He’s even got it tattooed across his upper back. He was also named the Buffalo Bills team Walter Payton Man of the Year for 2013 due to his work with the United Way of Buffalo and Erie County and he also takes part in the NFL Play 60 campaign.
What are your thoughts on the signing of Arthur Moats, Steeler Nation?
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