Who is pq on the steelers

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Last updated: April 8, 2026

Quick Answer: P.Q. on the Steelers refers to Patrick Queen, a linebacker who signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers in March 2024. He joined the team as a free agent after spending his first four NFL seasons (2020-2023) with the Baltimore Ravens, where he recorded 454 tackles, 13.5 sacks, and 4 interceptions. Queen's signing was part of Pittsburgh's defensive overhaul, with a 3-year, $41 million contract that includes $13.84 million guaranteed.

Key Facts

Patrick Queen signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers on March 13, 2024
He played for the Baltimore Ravens from 2020-2023, starting 61 games
Queen recorded 454 tackles and 13.5 sacks in his first four seasons
His contract is 3 years, $41 million with $13.84 million guaranteed
He was selected 28th overall in the 2020 NFL Draft by Baltimore

Overview

Patrick Queen, commonly abbreviated as P.Q., is a professional American football linebacker who joined the Pittsburgh Steelers in March 2024. His arrival marked a significant defensive acquisition for the storied franchise, which has historically been known for its dominant linebacker play. Queen brings youth and proven production to a Steelers defense that ranked 21st in total defense during the 2023 season. The signing represents Pittsburgh's commitment to rebuilding their defensive identity under head coach Mike Tomlin.

Before joining the Steelers, Queen spent his entire NFL career with the Baltimore Ravens, who selected him 28th overall in the 2020 NFL Draft. During his four seasons in Baltimore, he developed into one of the league's most promising young linebackers, earning Pro Bowl honors in 2023. The move to Pittsburgh created immediate buzz among Steelers fans, as Queen had been a divisional rival who consistently performed well against the Steelers. His transition from Baltimore to Pittsburgh represents one of the most notable free agent moves within the AFC North in recent years.

How It Works

Patrick Queen's role with the Steelers centers around his versatility as a modern NFL linebacker who excels in multiple defensive schemes.

Defensive Scheme Fit: Queen primarily operates as an inside linebacker in Pittsburgh's 3-4 defensive system, where he's responsible for both run defense and pass coverage. In 2023 with Baltimore, he played 1,042 defensive snaps (95% of team total) and recorded 133 tackles, demonstrating his durability and consistent production. His ability to play in both base and nickel packages makes him valuable in today's pass-heavy NFL.
Pass Coverage Skills: Queen has developed into an effective coverage linebacker, with 4 interceptions and 20 pass breakups through his first four seasons. His 2023 season saw particular improvement in this area, as he allowed just a 78.9 passer rating when targeted. This coverage ability is crucial for the Steelers, who faced the 5th-most passing attempts against them in 2023.
Run Defense Impact: As a run defender, Queen uses his 6-foot, 232-pound frame and 4.50-second 40-yard dash speed to flow sideline-to-sideline. He recorded 9 tackles for loss in 2023 and has averaged 113.5 tackles per season over his career. His presence should immediately improve Pittsburgh's run defense, which allowed 4.3 yards per carry in 2023.
Pass Rush Contribution: While not his primary role, Queen provides valuable pass rush ability from the linebacker position. He has recorded 13.5 career sacks, including 3.5 in 2023, and can effectively blitz through interior gaps. This versatility allows defensive coordinator Teryl Austin to create pressure packages without sacrificing coverage.

Key Comparisons

Feature	Patrick Queen (2023 Stats)	Average Steelers ILB (2023)
Tackles	133 total tackles	89 total tackles
Sacks	3.5 sacks	1.2 sacks
Pass Breakups	6 pass breakups	3 pass breakups
Games Started	17 games started	12 games started
Defensive Snaps	1,042 snaps (95%)	712 snaps (65%)

Why It Matters

Defensive Transformation: Queen's signing represents Pittsburgh's most significant linebacker investment since Ryan Shazier's career-ending injury in 2017. The Steelers have struggled to find consistent linebacker play since then, ranking 20th in run defense efficiency in 2023. Queen's 133 tackles in 2023 would have led all Steelers defenders by 31 tackles.
Divisional Impact: By signing a key player from their division rival, the Steelers weakened Baltimore's defense while strengthening their own. Queen had particular success against Pittsburgh during his time in Baltimore, recording 32 tackles, 2 sacks, and 1 interception in 8 career games against the Steelers. His familiarity with AFC North opponents provides strategic advantages.
Youth Movement: At just 24 years old when signed, Queen represents the future of Pittsburgh's defense alongside other young talents like safety Minkah Fitzpatrick (27) and defensive tackle Keeanu Benton (23). His 3-year contract aligns with Pittsburgh's competitive window and provides stability during a period of defensive transition.

Looking forward, Patrick Queen's success with the Steelers will be measured by his ability to elevate the entire defense and help Pittsburgh return to playoff contention. The team has missed the postseason in two of the last three years, and Queen's performance could be the difference in close divisional games. His development into a defensive leader will be crucial as Pittsburgh faces challenging offenses in the AFC North, including the defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs and improved Cincinnati Bengals. If Queen continues his upward trajectory, he could become the cornerstone of Pittsburgh's defense for years to come, potentially earning All-Pro honors and helping the Steelers compete for their seventh Super Bowl championship.