Saturday, August 23, 2025

Steelers Sign Former UFL Defender

The Pittsburgh Steelers are known for their relentless pursuit of talent, and it seems they are leaving no stone unturned in their search for the best players. In a surprising move, they have recently signed defensive end Kenny Willekes from the UFL, according to James Larsen of UFL Newsroom.

Willekes is coming off an impressive season with the Michigan team in the UFL, where he recorded 31 tackles, 4 sacks, and 28 quarterback pressures. His performance caught the attention of the Steelers’ scouting team, who wasted no time in signing him.

The UFL, or United Football League, is a professional football league that provides a platform for players to showcase their skills and potentially earn a spot on an NFL team. While it may not be as well-known as the NFL, the UFL has produced some talented players who have gone on to have successful careers in the top league.

The fact that the Steelers have turned to the UFL to find talent speaks volumes about their dedication to building a strong team. They are not content with just relying on the traditional routes of scouting and drafting players. Instead, they are willing to think outside the box and look for talent wherever it may be.

This move by the Steelers also shows their faith in the UFL as a legitimate platform for players to prove themselves. It can be challenging for players who do not get drafted or signed by NFL teams to get a second chance. But with the UFL, they have an opportunity to showcase their abilities and potentially catch the attention of NFL teams.

For Willekes, this is a dream come true. He has been working hard and giving his all in the UFL, hoping for a chance to prove himself in the NFL. And now, he has finally earned that chance with one of the most prestigious teams in the league.

Willekes is a talented and versatile player who will bring a lot to the Steelers’ defense. He is known for his speed, agility, and ability to get to the quarterback. His performance in the UFL has shown that he has what it takes to be successful in the NFL, and the Steelers have recognized that.

This signing also speaks to the strong scouting and evaluation process of the Steelers. They have a reputation for finding hidden gems and developing them into top players. Willekes could be the next success story for the Steelers, and fans are eager to see him in action.

This move also highlights the importance of not giving up on your dreams. Willekes could have easily been discouraged after going undrafted and not getting a chance with an NFL team. But he persevered and continued to work hard, and now he has earned a spot on one of the best teams in the league.

The Steelers have a history of turning overlooked or underrated players into stars. Players like Antonio Brown, James Harrison, and Willie Parker were not highly touted before joining the Steelers, but they went on to become key players for the team. Willekes could be the next player to follow in their footsteps.

In conclusion, the Pittsburgh Steelers have made a smart move by signing Kenny Willekes from the UFL. It shows their dedication to finding and developing talent, as well as their belief in the UFL as a legitimate platform for players. Willekes has worked hard and earned this opportunity, and he has the potential to become a valuable asset for the Steelers. Fans are excited to see what he can bring to the team and are hopeful for a successful season ahead.

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