PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – Linebacker Jaylon Smith said he was home in Dallas celebrating Christmas when he got a call from the Steelers, that they needed another middle linebacker. He believes he's got time where he can make an impact on the Steelers defense this week.
Smith was most recently with the Raiders, playing one game. It's the only action this season after being with the Saints in camp and also on the New Orleans practice squad for just over the first month of the season.
"I've done it before, multiple times in my career," Smith said of joining a team and playing right away. "I've gotten on a team on a Friday and played 48 hours later. Gotten in on Thursday and started on a Sunday. More me it's about getting here, getting around the guys, understanding the chemistry and what we are trying to do and achieve and get the playbook down from there."
The 28-year-old said it's just about putting the time in, but he has experience. He understands different schemes because of his experience and feels like he has a lot left in the tank. He says he has admired the organization and head coach in Mike Tomlin from afar.
"I love the edge, the physicality we play with here in Pittsburgh," Smith said. "Everyone is flying around trying to make a play, but doing it together. That's what matters, especially on the defensive side. You have to be a unit and as one."
Smith has played in 88 games, mainly with Dallas over his seven-year career. He had three seasons from 2018-2020 where he was one of the top tacklers in the league, 417 tackles over that span with four forced fumbles, two interceptions and 17 tackles for loss.
"I understand the Steel Curtain tradition," Smith said. "For me it's about giving all I got, applying pressure and adding value. I'm excited to be here."
There is a need with all three top middle linebackers out, is there enough time for him to get back and make an impact? It's a story, other than the quarterbacks, that will play out this week.
