Defensive tackle Larry Ogunjobi signs one-year deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers

Earlier on Tuesday, the Pittsburgh Steelers received a much-needed assist on the defensive line. They announced the signing of Larry Ogunjobi, a former Browns and Bengals defensive lineman. It is a one-year deal, according to the team.

Ogunjobi had his greatest year as a pro with the Bengals in 2021, tallying seven sacks on the inside defensive line. Unfortunately, Ogujobi sustained a foot injury deep into the season, which reduced his free-agent worth.

Considering he is healthy, Ogunjobi must be in the running to start at defensive tackle right away and at the very least be a crucial rotational player to help keep the whole defensive line fresh.

Ogunjobi was initially selected by the Browns in the 3rd round of the 2017 NFL Draft. Ogunjobi has a total of 63 career starts and 21.5 sacks. Being 28 years old, Ogunjobi is in his prime. And despite his involvement in the notorious Mason Rudolph incident, could be a valuable addition to the club.

Image Credits – Yahoo Sports

Garrett’s helmet bash resulted in a season-ending ban. In the midst of the incident, unproven reports of Rudolph employing a racist epithet dominated headlines. However, Ogunjobi was also highly involved. As one Steelers player dragged Garrett to the ground, another hit him. Ogunjobi intervened by pushing Rudolph, who also was facing the other way, to the ground.

Larry Ogunjobi previously signed a three-year contract with the Bears

Aside from the infamous brawls, Ogunjobi has amassed an excellent record as a run-stopper and would be expected to fill the vacuum created by Stephon Tuitt’s departure.

The 28-year-old earlier agreed to terms with the Chicago Bears for three years and $40.5 million. That plan, however, fell down after Ogunjobi missed his physical. He’ll now join a new club on a lower salary, but he’ll get to play with All-Pros T.J. Watt and Cameron Heyward.

Ogunjobi was a member of the AFC champion Cincinnati Bengals last season. However, he was sidelined for much of the playoffs after suffering a foot injury in the wild-card stage. He had 49 total stops, 12 tackles for loss, and a career-high 7 sacks during the regular season.