The Pittsburgh Steelers have signed free agent Pro Bowl defensive end Melvin Ingram to a one-year deal. The team is yet to make the news official, but Ingram himself confirmed the agreement in a chat with ESPN’s Josina Anderson.
“I just did the deal not too long ago and just got to the airport. It’s definitely a dope organization and environment; so I definitely feel like it’s the place for me,” Ingram told Anderson. He then added that Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin played a big role in his decision.
Ingram is coming to Pittsburgh after spending the first nine years of his career with the LA Chargers. During that time, he racked up 360 tackles, 49 sacks, 108 QB hits, 14 forced fumbles, three interceptions, and one defensive touchdown.
He is coming off a challenging 2020 campaign in which he struggled with a knee injury. The 32-year-old veteran only managed to suit up for seven games and failed to record a single sack for the first time in his pro career.
Melvin Ingram is expected to play an important part in the Steelers’ defense, especially after Bud Dupree left in free agency to join the Tennessee Titans. Ingram should be the primary backup on the left side and might even have a shot at the starting spot if 2020’s third-round pick Alex Highsmith doesn’t perform well.
