In a stunning turn of events, veteran pass rusher Preston Smith has found a new home with the Pittsburgh Steelers following a trade from the Green Bay Packers. The move, which came as the NFL trade deadline approached, has sent shockwaves through the league. However, the most intriguing aspect of this deal is the revelation that Smith himself requested the trade weeks prior, seeking a better fit for his unique skill set.
From Green Bay to Pittsburgh: The Untold Story
Speaking candidly in his first press conference as a Steeler, Smith shed light on the circumstances that led to his departure from Green Bay. “I didn’t feel like I was being useful in the system, and it wasn’t catering to my play style and moving forward,” Smith explained. The veteran’s frustration with the Packers’ new defensive scheme under coordinator Jeff Hafley had reached a boiling point, prompting him to seek greener pastures.
“I wasn’t surprised when I got the call. I got what I asked for, and I’m at a place that — a great place – with some great teammates, and I’m excited for the new start, and I’m excited for the rest of this journey for this season.”
Preston Smith on his trade to the Steelers
Smith’s discontent stemmed from the Packers’ transition from a 3-4 to a 4-3 defensive scheme, which saw him move from his natural position of outside linebacker to defensive end. Despite consistently recording at least eight sacks per season from 2021 to 2023, Smith felt that his talents were being underutilized in the new system.
A Perfect Fit in Pittsburgh
For Smith, the move to Pittsburgh represents a homecoming of sorts. The Steelers’ 4-3 defensive scheme is a familiar one, reminiscent of the systems he thrived in during his first nine seasons in the league. “It’s what I was comfortable playing in, and what I got used to playing in the previous nine seasons,” Smith noted. “So just being back in the system, it’s like riding your favorite bike again.”
The Steelers’ pass rush, already boasting the formidable duo of T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith, along with rising star Nick Herbig, is set to become even more fearsome with Smith’s addition. However, the veteran remains humble, emphasizing his willingness to embrace whatever role the team has in store for him.
“Man, I’m just here to embrace my role to help those guys out as much as I can. If they need a break, I’m going to be there for ’em to get a break, whatever the rotation may be. I’m here to accept my role and contribute in the best way possible.”
Preston Smith on his role with the Steelers
No Rest for the Wicked
In a cruel twist of fate, Smith’s trade to the Steelers has come at the cost of his bye week. The Packers were entering their scheduled break when the deal was finalized, while the Steelers had just concluded theirs. As a result, Smith now faces the daunting prospect of playing in all 18 regular-season weeks.
Despite the grueling schedule ahead, Smith remains undeterred. “It could have been any team,” he remarked. “While I was on the phone, I was looking up the record. I don’t keep up every team record, but I saw their record. I was like, ‘Woo!’ But I was also kind of sad, because they were just coming off the bye, and I was on a bye, and so I had to go back to work and now I don’t get a bye anymore. But I’m excited to be here. I’m ready to play. I’m ready to ball out.”
A New Chapter Begins
As Preston Smith embarks on this new chapter of his career, the football world eagerly awaits to see how his presence will impact the Steelers’ defense. Will he be the missing piece that propels Pittsburgh to the top of the AFC North? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Smith’s hunger for success and determination to prove himself in a system that plays to his strengths will make him a force to be reckoned with.
The Steelers’ acquisition of Smith, along with fellow trade deadline pickup Mike Williams, has injected a newfound sense of excitement and possibility into the team’s locker room. As head coach Mike Tomlin noted, “There’s some variables in that equation. First and foremost, the ability to learn. We got to have an above the line assignment component to our play, and then getting a sense of what they’re physically capable of. We got a few days to sort through some of those things.”
“This weekend, Sunday is not the end game. We acquired these guys to be with us for the remainder of this journey, and so that’s just my general mindset.”
Coach Mike Tomlin on integrating the new additions
As the Steelers prepare to face off against the Washington Commanders this Sunday, all eyes will be on Preston Smith, eager to witness the beginning of what promises to be a thrilling new chapter in his already impressive career. For Smith, this opportunity represents a chance to silence his doubters, showcase his talents, and prove that sometimes, the grass really is greener on the other side.
