The Pittsburgh Steelers have recently bolstered their offensive line by claiming guard Lecitus Smith off waivers from the New England Patriots. This move aims to enhance the team’s depth and versatility in the interior offensive line positions.
**Lecitus Smith’s Collegiate Journey**
Lecitus Smith’s football career began at Virginia Tech, where he showcased remarkable talent and dedication. After redshirting his freshman year in 2017, he progressively earned a starting role, primarily at left guard. By 2019, Smith had started 12 games and received an All-Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Honorable Mention, a testament to his growing influence on the field. He maintained this level of performance through the 2020 season, starting all 11 games and earning another All-ACC Honorable Mention. Opting to utilize his extra year of eligibility, Smith returned for a fifth season in 2021, further solidifying his skills and leadership within the team.
**Transition to the NFL**
In the 2022 NFL Draft, the Arizona Cardinals selected Smith in the sixth round as the 215th overall pick. During his rookie season, he appeared in 10 games, starting two at right guard. Despite showing promise, Smith faced challenges in securing a permanent spot with the Cardinals and was released during the final roster cuts before the 2023 season.
**Journey Through Multiple Teams**
Following his release from the Cardinals, Smith’s career saw him joining several teams in quick succession:
– **Houston Texans (November 2023):** Signed to the practice squad but released after six days.
– **Philadelphia Eagles (November 2023 – April 2024):** Joined the practice squad, signed a reserve/future contract in January 2024, but was waived in April.
– **Green Bay Packers (May – October 2024):** Signed in May, released in August, and re-signed to the practice squad before being signed off the practice squad by the New England Patriots in October.
**Stint with the New England Patriots**
Smith’s tenure with the Patriots in 2024 provided him with more opportunities to demonstrate his capabilities. He participated in eight games, starting one. Notably, his debut with the Patriots was marked by a start as a tackle-eligible tight end in a victory over the New York Jets. Despite these contributions, the Patriots released Smith on March 21, 2025, as part of their roster adjustments during the free agency period.
**Acquisition by the Pittsburgh Steelers**
On March 24, 2025, the Pittsburgh Steelers claimed Smith off waivers, aiming to strengthen their offensive line depth. With experience in 18 NFL games and three starts, Smith brings a blend of versatility and experience to the Steelers’ roster. His ability to adapt to various offensive schemes and positions along the line could prove valuable as the team prepares for the upcoming season.
**Implications for the Steelers**
The addition of Smith reflects the Steelers’ strategic approach to enhancing their offensive line, an area that has been a focal point for improvement. By integrating a player with Smith’s background, the team not only adds depth but also fosters healthy competition among linemen, potentially elevating overall performance. As the Steelers continue their offseason preparations, Smith’s integration into the team dynamics and his performance during training camps will be closely monitored to assess his fit within the offensive line unit.
**Conclusion**
Lecitus Smith’s journey through multiple NFL teams underscores the challenges and resilience inherent in professional football careers. His acquisition by the Pittsburgh Steelers offers a new chapter and an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to a storied franchise. Fans and analysts alike will be keen to observe how Smith’s experience and skills translate into his role with the Steelers, potentially impacting the team’s offensive strategies in the forthcoming season.
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