Steelers Now
Steelers linebacker Patrick Queen spoke to reporters on Wednesday at training camp arrival. He knows the NFL’s highest paid defense must perform in 2025.
**PITTSBURGH–**The Pittsburgh Steelers, once again, have the NFL’s highest-paid defense. Despite the defense getting off to strong starts in years past, seasons have ended on sour notes. Inside linebacker Patrick Queen spoke to the media on Wednesday and addressed his unit.
Queen, who is in the second year of his contract signed last offseason, spoke to reporters as players arrived. The team began its training camp with conditioning today and will have practice tomorrow.
LB Patrick Queen is one of the first to arrive here at #Steelers training camp in Latrobe. pic.twitter.com/v17ZIZ7MXs
— Brendan Howe (@bybrendanhowe) July 23, 2025
Queen acknowledged the changes on defense, saying he will miss departed guys, but understands the business aspect. With these moves, and the extension of TJ Watt, the Steelers again became the highest-paid defense.
For Queen, that fact doesn’t apply pressure, but does bring motivation. “I don’t think it’s pressure. I think it’s more motivation. Just knowing that you are the highest-paid defense,” He said.
Knowing they are now the highest-paid unit in football, Queen called to his teammates and set the standard. “Why not go out and prove it? Why not go out and show it?” He told reporters.
He is correct. The Steelers defense has made every effort to improve this unit. They signed a veteran corner and safety, drafted defensive line help, and traded for another All-Pro corner.
The journey begins in Latrobe for Queen and the Steelers. One thing is for sure: their leader on the inside linebacker corps knows the defense must perform into January.
Alan Saunders and Brendan Howe provided reporting from Latrobe, PA.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Now: Patrick Queen Knows Steelers Defense Must ‘Go Out and Show It’ In 2025
