Arthur Moats Believes a 32-Year-Old Linebacker Will Make a Difference on the Steelers 2026 Defense

Linebacker Elandon Roberts returned to the Steelers on August 13th. He signed a one-year contract. Steelers assistant general manager Andy Weidl praised the move for adding more depth to the linebacker group and raising the competition level. He said, “Credit to Omar pulling the trigger on it, bringing another guy in here and having more depth at that position.”

Former Steelers linebacker Arthur Moats appeared on KDKA’s Nightly Sports Call on Friday and shared his thoughts about Roberts reuniting with the Steelers. Moats said, “Elandon Roberts, that’s the story. That’s the guy that we have to talk about. We know we just re-signed him back, but you look at what he just did a year ago under Patrick Graham in Vegas, was phenomenal out there, ultra-productive. We know what he meant to us when he was here his first go-round, in terms of the leadership, the physicality, and just that tough, just demeanor that he presents.”

Moats explained, “So now when you look at where we currently are roster-wise, especially in that linebacker room, that was the missing piece. You see him come out here, and his first game back, he leads the team in tackles. He’s one of the most physical guys that you see out there.” He also remarked, “Him being back in this lineup is only going to make that defense that much better.” Roberts was named the Steelers Digest Player of the Week following his performance in the Steelers’ second preseason game on Friday. During the game, he had five tackles, including one for a loss.

Roberts played for the Steelers during the 2023 and 2024 seasons. He started 29 of 33 games. When the 32-year-old returned, Weidl spoke about his past performance with the Steelers. He remarked, “The guy was a warrior for us.” “He played hurt, played physical, played downhill,” added Weidl.

Roberts spent the 2025 season with the Raiders. He started 16 of the 17 games he played in. He amassed 90 tackles. When speaking to the media after practice on August 16th, Graham endorsed Roberts, calling him “a pleasure to be around.” He explained, “He’s brought up the right way in terms of how he sees the game, especially that linebacker position in terms of being an extension of the coordinator, usually, out there on the field. So that’s one. Plus then the physicality, whenever you get a chance to get pads on, the physicality, he brings that every day, you know?”

Roberts is a leader both on and off the field. Aside from his physicality, the 32-year-old is known for his high football IQ and communication skills. Roberts has already made an impact in his first game with the team since he returned. He’s poised to solidify his role as a key player for the Steelers’ defense in 2026.