The Pittsburgh Steelers are reinforcing their linebacker depth, signing Jon Rhattigan to the practice squad after a workout on Monday. The move comes just days after Mark Robinson chose to sign with the New England Patriots.
Rhattigan, 26, went undrafted out of Army in 2021 but quickly earned a reputation for toughness and discipline. He spent three seasons with the Seattle Seahawks before joining the Carolina Panthers in 2024.
In Carolina, Rhattigan appeared in 17 games and logged 12 special teams tackles, showing his value in one of the NFL’s most overlooked but critical roles. Across four seasons, he has totaled 44 tackles in 52 games.
Known more for grit than flash, Rhattigan clocked a 4.77 in the 40-yard dash during his pro day, but his physicality and instincts earned him steady snaps in coverage and special teams across multiple organizations.
The Steelers see him as a special teams grinder who can step in immediately, stabilize the practice squad, and provide insurance for a linebacker room that has been reshuffled in recent weeks.
With Robinson’s departure, depth behind the starters became thin. Rhattigan’s arrival fills that gap, giving Pittsburgh a battle-tested player who knows how to contribute in multiple phases of the game.
Fans have called the move a smart, under-the-radar pickup. “Not a star, but a worker — exactly what the Steelers need,” one post on X read, echoing the team’s long-standing identity.
Ultimately, Rhattigan’s addition reflects Pittsburgh’s commitment to toughness and reliability. He may not make highlight reels, but his presence ensures stability in a defense built on discipline and next-man-up mentality.