Steelers Bench Edge Rusher Before Kickoff Discipline Enforced Despite Depth Concerns
Pittsburgh, PA — What was already a frustrating 35–25 loss to the Green Bay Packers became even more troubling for the Pittsburgh Steelers when discipline issues surfaced moments before kickoff at Acrisure Stadium.
Just minutes before taking the field, coaches made a firm and unexpected call that sent a loud message across the locker room: standards come first, regardless of circumstance.
Backup edge rusher
“Every team struggles with player attitude at times — but not in Pittsburgh,”
The decision added to an already difficult night. With multiple defensive starters banged up and the pass rush stretched thin, the Steelers needed every contribution they could get in a pivotal matchup.
Yet the message was clear: accountability does not bend under pressure. Leal later apologized to teammates and staff, vowing to restore trust the hard way — by earning back his helmet.
The Steelers believe that enforcing discipline now is a long-term investment in culture. Coaches insist that one tough moment can spark a shift in a player’s professionalism.
As Pittsburgh regroups at 4-3, fans now hope this standard-setting move becomes a turning point. In a season filled with fine margins, the question is simple: Will discipline become the spark that saves the Steelers’ playoff push?
Ex-Cowboys Star Clears the Way for Dallas Return with $5M Contract
The Dallas Cowboys are reassessing their linebacker depth after Week 1, looking for experience to stabilize a unit that flashed potential but revealed gaps in consistency. With playoff ambitions alive, the front office is open to proven leadership.
Insiders indicate a reunion could be imminent with a veteran defender who already knows Mike Zimmer’s system and remains productive at age 33. Beat reporters have speculated for weeks, and momentum toward a deal has picked up.
That man is Eric Kendricks, the middle linebacker who anchored Dallas’ defense in 2024. Released into free agency this spring, Kendricks has stayed ready, training privately while his name continued circulating among Cowboys insiders.
Kendricks himself fueled the speculation with a heartfelt admission. “I was in the stands yesterday cheering for the Cowboys against the Eagles, and I’ll be honest — I wanted to suit up right then and there. That moment reminded me how much I love this team, this city, and this star. Now, I’m ready to clear the way for my return to Dallas.”
During his one season in Dallas, Kendricks started 15 games, racking up 138 tackles, three sacks, and two interceptions. His steady presence filled the void left by Leighton Vander Esch and gave young linebackers critical guidance.
His departure was framed as financial, not performance-based. Dallas chose to let his one-year, $3 million deal expire, hoping to get younger with Kenneth Murray and DeMarvion Overshown. Yet Kendricks’ production never truly waned.
Reports now suggest the Cowboys are weighing a one-year, $5 million offer to bring him back. The structure would reward Kendricks’ leadership while keeping Dallas flexible as it manages its cap and continues youth development.
For fans at AT&T Stadium, the potential reunion is more than nostalgia. It signals Dallas’ intent to maximize its defense in a loaded NFC East — and reminds supporters that one of their most reliable veterans could still have unfinished business in the star.
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