Steelers claim Mettenberger, put Gradkowski on IR

Much as been made about what the Steelers were going to do a the backup QB position, but they addressed that need today.

This afternoon, the Steelers have claimed QB Zach Mettenberger off waivers. This, undoubtedly, answers the question on who the third QB was going to be. Many in Steelers Nation have suggested many names, including names the Steelers could trade for. But thankfully, the Steelers don’t have to give up any draft picks.

To make room for Mettenberger, the Steelers placed Bruce Gradkowski on IR. Gradkowski hasn’t seen a snap since the first pre-season game against the Detroit Lions. With the addition of Mettenberger, the writing on the wall seems to indicate that Gradkowski’s days with the Steelers are done. These are the kinds of things that make being an NFL fan hard. Now, obviously, Gradkowski is most known for being a journeyman, he’s played for the Buccaneers, Rams, Browns, Raiders, and Bengals. But he’s been in Black & Gold for the last few seasons. If this is, truly, the end for Gradkowski in Pittsburgh, then a big ‘thank you’ goes out to the man himself. Gradkowski has been a great locker room guy, a great sideline guy, and an all around great teammate. Thank you, Bruce.

Obviously, Mettenberger will assume the 3rd QB spot, right behind Landry Jones. I don’t see any “QB controversy” forthcoming for the 2nd spot, considering Jones’ resume to Mettenberger’s.

In case some of you may have forgotten, Mettenberger was the same guy that almost beat the Steelers two seasons ago. He had a nice TD pass (fast forward to 0:58) to, former Steeler, Nate Washington. But he also threw a pick-six right to William Gay.

With all this being said, I’m happy to see the Steelers address this position before the regular season. Let’s just hope Jones or Mettenberger never have to see the field this season, unless we’re winning by 30+ points.