The Pittsburgh Steelers have made two significant signings this week, continuing their efforts to bolster their roster. On Monday, they added Myles Jack to their practice squad, and now they are set to bring in another experienced linebacker, Blake Martinez, on Tuesday.

According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Martinez is being signed off the Panthers’ practice squad. Martinez previously signed with the Panthers earlier this month after coming out of retirement. He retired while playing for the Raiders in November 2022 to focus on a profitable Pokemon trading card business. However, he returned to football after being banned from selling cards on a major online marketplace.

Before his brief retirement, Martinez played in four games with the Raiders in 2022 and three games for the Giants in 2021 before tearing his ACL. Over the previous five seasons, he appeared in 77 games for the Packers and Giants and has amassed 706 tackles, 13 sacks, four interceptions, four forced fumbles, and three fumble recoveries throughout his career. These signings demonstrate the Steelers’ commitment to strengthening their linebacker corps with experienced players.