The Pittsburgh Steelers are bringing back a familiar face, signing veteran linebacker Elandon Roberts to their practice squad, according to Tom Pelissero. Coach Mike McCarthy confirmed the reunion Monday, giving Pittsburgh an experienced option at inside linebacker.
Roberts, 32, previously played for the Steelers in 2023 and 2024 before spending last season with the Las Vegas Raiders. He returned to Pittsburgh during training camp this summer but was released when the organization finalized its initial 53-man roster.
That experience should help ease his transition. Roberts already participated in Pittsburgh’s defensive installation during August, while his year in Las Vegas gave him experience under Patrick Graham, now the Steelers’ defensive coordinator.
The production behind his resume is notable. Roberts recorded 101 tackles during his first Steelers season, helping hold together a linebacker group hit by injuries. Last season, he started 16 games for the Raiders and finished with 90 tackles.
McCarthy praised Roberts’ summer work while explaining the decision to bring him back. “I enjoyed him in training camp, I thought he did a nice job,” the coach said, adding that Pittsburgh is trying to improve its team.
The practice-squad designation matters. Roberts is not automatically returning to the active roster or reclaiming a starting assignment. Instead, the Steelers gain a veteran they can evaluate and potentially elevate as circumstances require.
His return also reunites him with Patrick Queen and Payton Wilson, who shared Pittsburgh’s linebacker room with him in 2024.
For now, this is a depth move built around familiarity, experience and flexibility.