After four seasons in the Baltimore Ravens organization, linebacker Patrick Queen is out the door. General manager Eric DeCosta and the team didn’t pick up the fifth-year option on his rookie deal in what was considered a salary cap-saving move and knew he’d most likely play elsewhere in 2024.

But I’m not sure they thought he’d be a Steeler.

Queen signed with the rival Pittsburgh Steelers on Wednesday. The deal is for three years and $41 million. The LSU product was introduced to the Pittsburgh media on Friday, and revealed why he chose the Steelers in free agency.

“I think just the organization itself, known for winning, known for great defense, and there’s a bunch of stars over here,” Queen said. “I just wanted to come be a part of that and be that extra piece to try and win again.”

Queen was also asked how it will feel to play his former team – the only other NFL team he’s ever played for – twice per season as a now-rival to the Baltimore Ravens.

“It’s going to be weird, you know, I wanna be that villain, I want to be that guy,” Queen continued. “I’m looking to do some stuff to them.”

Last season, Queen tallied 133 total tackles with one interception and 3.5 sacks. Since arriving in Baltimore through the 2020 NFL Draft (No. 6 overall) he has registered 454 total tackles with four picks and 13.5 sacks.

The Steelers get the best version of Queen off a career year, and now the Ravens will have to face him twice a year with their revamped offense. After agreeing to terms with former Titans running back Derrick Henry, the Baltimore offense boasts a list of playmakers.