When the local media caught up with Omar Khan ahead of his official NFL Combine media session, we expected the Pittsburgh Steelers' general manager to address comments on the status of Aaron Rodgers (which he did). But Khan also talked about one polarizing player currently under contract—Patrick Queen.
Queen is coming off a shaky 2025 campaign with a lofty cap number exceeding $17 million for the 2026 season. When asked about Queen's looming status with the team, Khan's comments made it clear which camp he falls under, per PennLive's Nick Farabaugh.
"He likes being here and we like having him part of the team.... I'm excited to have him around."
I do not doubt that Queen loves being a Steeler. The veteran linebacker and big 2024 free-agent signing rarely left the field and was given command of the defense as the 'green dot' captain.
But Khan's brash decision to move forward with Queen is sure to ruffle some feathers.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are making a mistake keeping LB Patrick Queen in 2026
Queen wasn't just inconsistent in 2025; he was downright bad at times. The veteran linebacker and 2020 first-round pick of the Baltimore Ravens had continual lapses in coverage. PFF credited Queen with allowing 74 receptions on 94 targets for 829 yards and three touchdowns (while never recording an interception).
Not only was Queen a weakness in coverage over the middle of the field—allowing a 114.1 passer rating on the season—but he was also one of the most inconsistent tacklers in the league. Queen was credited with a 20.4 percent missed tackle rate, among the worst in the NFL.
The collection of his unspectacular performance earned Queen a dismal 43.5 grade from Pro Football Focus for the 2025 season. The cherry on top was that, despite playing 1,180 defensive snaps, Queen was almost completely void of turnover-worthy plays.
By releasing Queen, the Steelers would instantly save $13.33 million, per Over the Cap. This is money that can be used to invest back into improved linebacker talent in free agency. Free agents like Devin Lloyd and Leo Chenal could prove to be better and more consistent options at the position.
Omar Khan was quick to rush to a big offseason decision. To many fans, releasing Queen seemed like the obvious right answer this offseason. Unfortunately, the Pittsburgh Steelers don't see it that way. And we could be forced to witness another frustrating (and overpriced) season from Patrick Queen in 2026.