Patrick Queen Reveals How Russell Wilson & Steelers Can Stop Ravens’ Lamar Jackson: “Hard Guy to Stop”
In an unexpected twist, former Baltimore Ravens linebacker Patrick Queen is set to face off against his former team this upcoming season. After spending four seasons with the Ravens, Queen has joined the Pittsburgh Steelers, a move that has raised eyebrows across the NFL. The 24-year-old linebacker, who had a career-best season last year, was courted by as many as 15 teams, but he ultimately chose the Steelers, signing a three-year deal worth $41 million. Now, as a member of the Steelers, Queen will be tasked with stopping his former teammate, the dynamic Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson.
Queen’s insights into stopping Jackson are highly anticipated, given his intimate knowledge of the Ravens’ playbook and Jackson’s tendencies. In a recent interview, Queen was asked the million-dollar question: how do you slow down Lamar Jackson? Queen didn’t hold back in his response, highlighting Jackson’s versatility and the need for a multifaceted defensive strategy.
“You can’t rely on one technique with Lamar,” Queen explained. “He’s got everything in his bag. You need to mix up your strategies to keep him guessing. Whether it’s bringing immediate pressure to his face, stopping his runs, or confusing him with varied coverages, you have to keep him on his toes.”
Queen emphasized the importance of disrupting Jackson’s rhythm and not allowing him to get comfortable. “If you give him time, he’ll find a way to get the ball out. He’s just a hard guy to stop. He has these no-look passes that are deadly. He can look one way and fire the ball the other way without missing a beat.”
For the Steelers, having Queen’s insider knowledge will be invaluable. His familiarity with Jackson’s playing style and the Ravens’ offensive strategies could be the key to containing one of the most electrifying quarterbacks in the league. Queen’s transition to the Steelers has been smooth, much to his relief, as he had concerns about how he would be received by his new teammates, especially star linebacker T.J. Watt.
“When you join a rival team, you don’t know what to expect,” Queen admitted. “I thought some people might have attitudes or be a bit rough. But everyone has been great. T.J. and the rest of the guys have been really welcoming. I couldn’t ask for a better place.”
@Patrickqueen_ You’re Dead to us, Queen. Good luck, You’re Dead to me. https://t.co/JHb1KFX2qS pic.twitter.com/pP7hKT9MO1
— Lamar Jackson (@Lj_era8) March 12, 2024
Queen’s move to Pittsburgh has also drawn reactions from his former teammates, including Jackson. Queen bid farewell to Ravens Nation with a heartfelt message on X, expressing gratitude to everyone from the café staff to the coaches. However, before Queen could officially announce his transfer, Jackson had already responded with a cheeky comment, highlighting the playful camaraderie between the two former teammates.
The upcoming matchup between the Steelers and the Ravens is already generating significant buzz. With Queen now in Pittsburgh, the dynamics of this storied rivalry have taken an intriguing turn. Both teams are keen to make a statement, and for Queen, this game holds extra significance as he aims to prove his decision to join the Steelers was the right one.
Russell Wilson, the veteran quarterback leading the Steelers, also faces a season filled with high expectations. After a disappointing stint with the Denver Broncos, Wilson is looking to revitalize his career and lead Pittsburgh to the playoffs. The partnership between Wilson and Queen could be pivotal in achieving this goal. Queen’s defensive prowess combined with Wilson’s experience and leadership could provide the Steelers with the edge they need in their pursuit of postseason success.
QUEEEEENNN! @Patrickqueen_
— Russell Wilson (@DangeRussWilson) March 12, 2024
As the NFL season approaches, all eyes will be on this new chapter in Patrick Queen’s career. His ability to translate his knowledge of Lamar Jackson and the Ravens’ offense into actionable strategies for the Steelers will be crucial. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this narrative unfolds, and the anticipation is palpable.