Full Breakdown
Pittsburgh Steelers Work Out Linebackers Isaiah Simmons and Michael Barrett
10/9/2025, 3:49:00 PM
Steelers Seek Linebacker Depth Amid Roster Changes
On October 8, 2025, the Pittsburgh Steelers hosted workouts for linebackers Isaiah Simmons and Michael Barrett as the team seeks to bolster its depth following recent roster changes. The Steelers lost Jon Rhattigan to the Las Vegas Raiders and waived Ja'Whaun Bentley, prompting the need for additional linebacker support. The team has since signed Jacoby Windmon to its practice squad.
Isaiah Simmons: A Former First-Round Pick's Journey
Isaiah Simmons, drafted 8th overall by the Arizona Cardinals in the 2020 NFL Draft, has had a tumultuous career. Known for his versatility, Simmons played various positions including linebacker, safety, and edge rusher. During his three seasons with the Cardinals, he recorded 258 tackles, 7.5 sacks, and four interceptions. However, he struggled to find a consistent role, leading to his trade to the New York Giants before the 2023 season. In New York, Simmons appeared in 34 games over two years, primarily as a reserve, accumulating 71 tackles and one interception. After signing with the Green Bay Packers in April 2025, he was released in August without making the final roster.
Simmons' athleticism is notable; he ran a 4.39-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine and has been described as a "position-less" player due to his size and speed. Despite his potential, many analysts consider him a draft bust, as he has not lived up to the expectations set during his collegiate career at Clemson, where he was an All-American and helped lead the team to a national championship.
Michael Barrett: A Less-Hyped Prospect
Michael Barrett, a seventh-round pick by the Carolina Panthers in the 2024 NFL Draft, has yet to make his mark in the NFL. He recorded 208 tackles and two interceptions during his college career at Michigan. Barrett has bounced around the league, spending time with the Panthers, Seattle Seahawks, Cleveland Browns, Green Bay Packers, and Las Vegas Raiders, but has not yet appeared in a regular-season game. His workout with the Steelers follows a similar path, as he seeks to establish himself in the league.
Official Statements & Responses
The Steelers have not made any immediate signings following the workouts. However, the team is actively looking to fill the gaps left by the departures of Bentley and Rhattigan. The addition of Simmons could provide depth across multiple positions, while Barrett represents a potential developmental prospect.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite his impressive physical attributes, Simmons has faced criticism for not fulfilling the expectations associated with his high draft status. Analysts have pointed out that his lack of a defined role has hindered his development, leading to questions about his fit within a structured defensive scheme.
What's Next for the Steelers?
As the Steelers prepare for their upcoming game against the Cleveland Browns, they will need to make a decision regarding the addition of either Simmons or Barrett to their roster. The team is likely to continue exploring options for linebacker depth as they navigate the challenges of the season.
