Report: Steelers sign former Alabama linebacker Ryan Anderson after TJ Watt injury

The Pittsburgh Steelers signed a free agent linebacker to the practice squad on Tuesday after the injury to star edge rusher TJ Watt. Former Alabama standout Ryan Anderson signed to the practice squad after completing a workout with the team, according to the Athletics’ Ben Standig.

The Steelers are facing several weeks without Watt after the Wisconsin alum suffered a pectoral injury in the season-opener versus the Bengals.

Ryan Anderson was a second-round draft pick for Washington, where he spent four seasons. Last year, he was with the New York Giants on a one-year, $1.12 million deal. However, he made headlines when he faced a six-game suspension for performance-enhancing drugs. He did not record a stat in 2021 with the Giants.

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In 52 games with Washington, he recorded 86 tackles, five forced fumbles, 15 QB hits, six sacks and one pass defensed. During his last active season, in 2020, he played nine games with nine tackles, including one tackle for loss.

If he joins Pittsburgh, it will be a great opportunity for Anderson to show that he’s still able to contribute in a meaningful way in the NFL.

Watt injury not season-ending

The Pittsburgh Steelers had a scare on Monday regarding the reigning Defensive Player of the Year. During the win against the Cincinnati Bengals, TJ Watt walked off the field injured, claiming he tore his pec. His timeline to return came out on Tuesday.

According to Ian Rapoport, the pec tear for Watt is not considered season-ending since he won’t need surgery. He could return to action in six weeks or so.

“#Steelers reigning defensive player of the year TJ Watt is still waiting on more information, but the belief is his pectoral injury will not require surgery and is not season-ending, sources tell me and @TomPelissero,” Rapoport said. “He could be back in six weeks or so.”

Even with the positive news, Watt is still most likely to end up on injured reserve. If the six-week timeline remains true, Watt should be back for the Week 8 matchup against the Miami Dolphins.