4 veteran OLBs the Steelers need to sign to replace Dupree
By Andrew Falce
Clay Matthews
It isn’t often that a potential Hall of Fame player is sitting as a free agent this long, but that is the case for Clay Matthews. The long time Packer completed a one-year stint with the Rams last year, but he hasn’t found any work since. Given his talent and versatility as a player, the Steelers shouldn’t hesitate to add him to at least the practice squad.
Matthews flashed last year, posting eight sacks in a more reserved role, but he was not brought back and has yet to find a home. With the Steelers, he could serve as both the veteran mentor and depth at both outside and inside linebacker as he has experience in both roles. While he may have been sitting out looking for a bigger role, offering him a spot on the currently undefeated Steelers may have enough appeal to bring him aboard.
While a week or two on the practice squad would probably do him well, he still has the ability to make an impact on the roster. As well, he could serve as a mentor to the other linebackers and give them additional tips on how to better their game. Out of all the veteran options, Matthews would have the best chance at making an impact and providing the best value for the Steelers.
While the loss of Dupree will be a hard one to overcome, the Steelers have a rookie with a bright future in front of him in Highsmith. That shouldn’t stop them from adding some veteran depth though. Keep these players in mind as potential roster adds in the coming week to help overcome Dupree’s loss.