Three Pittsburgh Steelers FA’s Still With A Fighting Chance

Aug 24, 2013; Landover, MD, USA; Washington Redskins quarterback Pat White (5) rolls out as Buffalo Bills linebacker Jamaal Westerman (93) chases during the second half at FedEX Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports

Jamaal Westerman

Who, you might ask.  Westerman was signed by the Steelers late last season.  To no one’s surprise, the Steelers struggled with injuries with the outside linebacking group – no thanks to LaMarr Woodley – and the Steelers signed Westerman late in the year.  As I’ve written in previous pieces, the Steelers have very little depth at outside linebacker.  Westerman was signed as an UDFA with the Jets and was kicked around to the Cardinals, Colts, and Jets.  If folks are rather set at not having a 36 year old James Harrison come in and serve as a backup to Jarvis Jones or Jason Worilds, perhaps they would feel a bit better with  Westerman who turns does not turn 30 until next February.  He’s played the 3-4 scheme while with the Jets, and has been noted as an effective pass rusher off the edge with quickness off the snap.

This is supposed to be Chris Carter’s year to shine and secure his backup role to Jarvis Jones. I’m not holding my breath, and the Steelers should find some more help at OLB on that side of the ball before camp starts.  Westerman is an option still, so I think he has a fighting chance to get called up by the Steelers for another season.