Steelers Signal Former UFL Defender
The Pittsburgh Steelers are leaving no stone unturned of their pursuit of expertise.
They’re even dipping into the UFL.
Based on James Larsen of UFL Newsroom, the Steelers have signed defensive finish Kenny Willekes.
“Willekes is coming off an incredible UFL marketing campaign in Michigan, with 31 tackles, 4 sacks and 28 QB pressures to his title. One of many UFL’s high edge rushers from 2024-2025,” Larsen wrote on X.
BREAKING: The Pittsburgh #Steelers are signing @USFLPanthers DE Kenny Willekes, per sources.
Willekes is coming off an incredible #UFL marketing campaign in Michigan; with 31 tackles, 4 sacks, & 28 QB pressures to his title.
One of many UFL’s high edge rushers from 2024-2025. #UFLtoNFL pic.twitter.com/QyGXahYXHd
— James Larsen (@JamesLarsenPFN) August 19, 2025
This will likely be one other alternative for Willekes to reach the NFL.
The Minnesota Vikings took him within the seventh spherical of the 2020 NFL Draft.
He didn’t make their 53-man roster, however he bought to remain on the follow squad after which performed in six video games in 2021.
He logged 18 mixed tackles (11 solo), two tackles for loss, seven QB hits and a pair of.5 sacks.
The Vikings launched him, and he signed with the Michigan Panthers.
His numbers within the UFL had been way more spectacular, with 31 tackles, 28 complete pressures and 4 sacks in 9 video games this season.
But, he’s going to have a tricky time making the 53-man roster for Pittsburgh.
The workforce is stacked on protection with move rushers T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, Nick Herbig and Jack Sawyer all locked in on the roster.
Willekes will most certainly have a possibility to go well with up and make a case for himself within the last preseason recreation, even when it’s simply to safe a spot on the follow squad.
