Steelers Claim Offensive Lineman Lecitus Smith from Patriots

PITTSBURGH, Pa. — The Pittsburgh Steelers have bolstered their offensive line depth by claiming offensive guard Lecitus Smith off waivers from the New England Patriots on Monday. The Patriots cut Smith last week, marking another chapter in his tumultuous career in the NFL.

Smith, a sixth-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft by the Arizona Cardinals, has played in 18 NFL games, starting three of those. In the 2024 season with the Patriots, he appeared in eight games, starting once as a tackle-eligible tight end during a matchup against the New York Jets. During that game, he played only three offensive snaps.

“The Steelers are looking to fill some gaps on their offensive line, and adding a player with Smith’s versatility could be a key to improving our depth,” said NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.

Initially drafted by the Cardinals, Smith logged 209 offensive snaps in his rookie year, where he participated in 10 games and started in two. However, he was waived before the 2023 season, leading to a series of short stints on practice squads with the Houston Texans and Philadelphia Eagles.

After an unsuccessful tenure with the Texans, where he was released shortly after signing, Smith signed with the Eagles, eventually securing a futures deal in January 2024. He was later released in April 2024, and subsequently joined the Green Bay Packers. However, he was cut before the season began, only to be re-signed to their practice squad.

In October 2024, the Patriots added Smith to their active roster, marking his return to regular-season action. Over the course of the season, he appeared in eight games, but most of his contributions came on special teams.

The Steelers are eager to integrate Smith into their lineup as they prepare for the upcoming season. He is expected to compete closely with Spencer Anderson for the backup guard position, which indirectly supports starters Isaac Seumalo and Mason McCormick.

“I’m grateful for another opportunity and excited to work with such a storied franchise as the Steelers,” Smith said in a statement. “I’ve learned a lot through my experiences, and I’m ready to contribute.”

With a collegiate background at Virginia Tech, where he earned All-ACC Honorable Mention honors in 2019, Smith brings a wealth of experience to the Steelers. He played in 45 games at Virginia Tech, with 38 starts primarily at left guard.

The Steelers’ claim of Smith signals a proactive approach to addressing the team’s needs on the offensive line as they gear up for a new season.