The Steelers made a couple of trades prior to Tuesday’s deadline, and one seemingly came rather easily.
Pittsburgh acquired outside linebacker Preston Smith from the Green Bay Packers, shipping off just a seventh-round pick for the former double-digit sacksman. The Steelers didn’t need to give up much for the soon-to-be 32-year-old, likely because he wanted out of Wisconsin.
“I got what I asked for,” Smith said on Wednesday, per video provided by The Trib’s Chris Adamski, referring to a trade request that was made a couple of weeks ago.
Smith requested the deal due to a new system that was implemented by Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley, who switched from a 3-4 to a 4-3 when taking over this season.
“I’m happy to get out here, get back into a system I’m comfortable being in and playing at a high level. I’m loving it right now,” Smith said. “It’s what I’ve been playing in for the last nine years of my career — until this past season… It’s a system I’ve been comfortable playing in, and it’s like riding your favorite bike again.”
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The Steelers will add some depth to an already frightening pass rush alongside outside linebackers Alex Highsmith and T.J. Watt.
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Featured image via Steve Roberts/Imagn Images