The Pittsburgh Steelers defense was a major reason why the team made the playoffs last season. Now, they’re adding more depth and muscle to that defense.
The team announced the signing of linebacker Steven Johnson on Friday morning. Johnson first started his NFL career in 2012 when he was signed by the Denver Broncos as an unrestricted free agent out of the University of Kansas, as he was not selected in the NFL Draft.
He spent three seasons with the Broncos. He appeared in 11 games his first season, 16 in his second season, and 14 in his third season. He never started in his first and second seasons, but did total seven starts in his third season. He totaled 50 tackles, 0.5 sacks, and one forced fumble in his three years with Denver.
This past 2015 NFL season, Johnson was a member of the Tennessee Titans. He played in 16 games, but didn’t start any. He recorded only seven total tackles and no sacks or forced fumbles.
In his career, his accomplishments mostly came on special teams, as 34 tackles were recorded on special teams. He had one forced fumble and two fumble recoveries on special teams in his career.
Johnson replaces Sean Spence, who signed with the Titans as a free agent, on the Steelers defense. The swap likely saves the Steelers about $1 million of cap space in the long run.
Now, as a member of the Steelers defense, he joins fellow linebackers Ryan Shazier, James Harrison, Lawrence Timmons, Anthony Chickillo, Bud Dupree, Arthur Moats, L.J. Fort, Vince Williams, Jordan Zumwalt, and Jarvis Jones.
Photo Credit: USA Today Sports
