In the wake of T.J. Watt’s injury, the Pittsburgh Steelers are signing former Washington Commanders outside linebacker Ryan Anderson to the practice squad, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. The Steelers worked Anderson out on Tuesday.
Watt suffered a pectoral injury. The NFL’s reigning Defensive Player of the Year is considering options to address it. Watt is facing season-ending surgery but could miss six weeks if he avoids the surgery.
Nonetheless, he is likely heading to injured reserve no matter the timetable for his recovery.
Anderson was a second-round draft pick of Washington’s in 2017 out of Alabama. He played four seasons with Washington but never carved out a role. He was tried as an off-ball linebacker and edge rusher through the years. His best season occurred in 2019 with 44 tackles, 4.0 sacks, five forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries in 16 games, including four starts.
Anderson played out his rookie contract before Washington let him test free agency. He ultimately signed with the New York Giants last offseason. However, the league suspended him for six games for violating the NFL’s policy on performance-enhancing substances. The Giants released him before the season.
In 52 games, Anderson had 86 tackles and 6.0 sacks.
