The Pittsburgh Steelers made a notable move ahead of the NFL trade deadline by acquiring veteran wide receiver Mike Williams from the New York Jets, as expected. However, they then stunned many by trading for Preston Smith, the former edge rusher of the Green Bay Packers. Smith confirmed on Wednesday that he had requested a trade weeks earlier due to discomfort with the Packers’ new 4-3 defensive scheme, which he felt didn’t suit his strengths. He specifically sought a team that runs a 3-4 defense, which he believes is a better fit for his skill set.
“I got what I asked for,” Smith told reporters, as shared by *The Athletic.
A 10-year NFL veteran, Smith spent six seasons with the Packers after stints with the Washington Football Team. He’s now heading to the Steelers, who have employed a 3-4 defense for over three decades. While Smith is new to Pittsburgh, he expressed confidence that adjusting to the Steelers’ defensive system will be seamless. “It’s just what I’ve been playing in the last nine years of my career,” he said, according to the Tribune-Review. “Just being back in the system is like riding your favorite bike again.”
Smith’s production supports his claim that he’s more effective in a 3-4 defense. From 2021 onward, he posted 25.5 sacks, 22 tackles for loss, and six forced fumbles. Last season, he added eight sacks, two forced fumbles, and four tackles for loss. However, in 2023, Smith has managed just 2.5 sacks and two tackles for loss in nine games while playing in the Packers’ 4-3 scheme, without forcing a fumble.
In Pittsburgh, Smith is expected to be more productive. Though his exact role hasn’t been clarified, he will likely fill the gap left by DeMarvin Leal’s injury. Like Leal, Smith is a versatile player capable of playing both defensive end and outside linebacker, which likely played a role in the Steelers’ decision to trade for him. Smith’s reputation as a pass rusher is also a key reason for the trade—he has accumulated 68.5 sacks, including six seasons with at least eight sacks.
In his first game as a Steeler this Sunday, Smith will be called upon to help the defense contain Washington Commanders rookie quarterback Sam Howell.