The Pittsburgh Steelers enter 2026 with the eighth-most cap space in the NFL, sitting with approximately $44.7 million. That number can jump up to roughly $57.2 million if they were to part ways with Patrick Queen, who has been labeled as a cut candidate ahead of the new league year.
General manager Omar Khan spoke to the media on Tuesday during his press conference at the NFL Combine, and Jon Ledyard asked about Queen’s future in Pittsburgh.
“It’s been a good experience with Pat,” Khan said. “He’s got a unique skillset. I know he’s been in contact with the new coaches… It’s been a good experience, and I expect him to contribute.”
The Steelers signed Queen to a three-year, $41 million deal in 2024, which is the largest external free-agent deal in team history. He was a Pro Bowl selection in 2024, posting 129 tackles, and followed that up with 120 tackles in 2025.
The knock on Queen during his tenure in Pittsburgh thus far has been a lack of consistency. Should the Steelers decide to part ways with the former Raven, it would leave a hole at the MIKE linebacker spot, and it could show an internal belief in Payton Wilson to take on a bigger role.
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