Steelers Re-Sign LB Anthony Chickillo

On Tuesday night, Adam Schefter of ESPN tweeted the Pittsburgh Steelers were re-signing linebacker Anthony Chickillo to a two year deal worth $8 million.

Chickillo, the team’s 6th round pick in the 2015 NFL Draft, has seen his role expand from special teams player to key rotational linebacker, primarily filling in for T.J. Watt when needed.

Chickillo played in all 16 games in 2018, amassing 24 combined tackles (4 TFL) with 2 passes defended and 2 fumbles recovered.

The move re-assures the Steelers depth at a position they value almost more than any other, despite what many will consider a hefty payday for is essentially is a valued special teams player.

The move comes on the heels of not re-structuring Bud Dupree’s $9 million cap hit for 2019, as the Steelers will be paying a combined $13 million for two players who have yet to contribute in a significant way.

However, the Steelers value their in-house players, and the front office appears to be pleased with the moves made in free agency thus far.