Rhattigan lands on the Steelers active roster for Week 2, stepping in for a defense thin at multiple spots as Malik Harrison goes to IR. With injuries to Porter Jr, Harmon and Elliott, Pittsburgh adds veteran depth while James Pierre returns on game day escalation. The reunion angle adds edge as Rhattigan faces Seattle, his first NFL stop before a long arc through the league.

The Steelers sign Jon Rhattigan to their practice squad, adding a veteran special-teams ace and linebacker depth with NFL experience from Seattle and Carolina. Rhattigan’s versatility on coverage units and as a depth LB should bolster Pittsburgh’s depth and special-teams presence as they near the Jets season opener.

His addition signals a focus on reliable depth and coverage prowess rather than immediate 53-man impact, with fantasy relevance more likely in deeper formats or as a potential active-roster contributor if injuries strike Pittsburgh’s LB corps.

Pittsburgh hosts Jon Rhattigan for a look at inside linebacker depth ahead of Week 1 after Jaylen Warren’s extension. Rhattigan, Army product and 2021 undrafted signing with Seattle, spent 36 games there with 32 tackles and largely special-teams value, then appeared in 16 games for Carolina in 2025 with 12 tackles. The Steelers have not yet signed him, but the workout signals they’re exploring athletic depth behind the starter group in time for the opener.

Rhattigan’s evaluative profile emphasizes diagnosing run flow, strong wrap-up tackling, and versatility within inside linebacker concepts. The visit adds a potential insurance option who could contribute on special teams and spell the middle if called upon, giving Pittsburgh flexibility as it narrows its Week 1 roster picture.

The Carolina Panthers are gearing up for their training camp, with a focus on their inside and outside linebackers. Key players like Josey Jewell, Trevin Wallace, and Christian Rozeboom are expected to hold their positions despite a lackluster performance last season. The depth chart features strong competition from rookies Nic Scourton and Princely Umanmielen, who are poised to make an impact. Special teamers like Claudin Cherelus and Jon Rhattigan could secure spots on the roster due to their unique skills. Observers should watch the battle involving Trevin Wallace, as he looks to solidify his role amid a crowded field.

The Carolina Panthers are facing a significant crisis on defense due to a string of injuries. Rookie linebacker Trevin Wallace, who stepped up amid the turmoil, is now sidelined for the season following shoulder surgery. This leaves the team with an already depleted linebacker corps, as backup Claudin Cherilus also landed on injured reserve.

Head coach Dave Canales confirmed the severity of the situation, with key players like Shaq Thompson and Derrick Brown also out. As the Panthers prepare to face the Arizona Cardinals, their defensive struggles could be exacerbated by the lack of depth and experience on the field.