New Linebacker Rejects Chargers’ $6M Offer: “I Only Want Steelers”

Pittsburgh, PA — September 18, 2025 — In a stunning display of loyalty, new Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Ja’Whaun Bentley revealed he turned down a lucrative $6 million offer from the Los Angeles Chargers to join the Steelers’ practice squad, driven by his belief in the team’s storied tradition and hard-hitting style. The 29-year-old veteran, who signed with Pittsburgh on September 17, 2025, spoke passionately at his locker about his decision to prioritize fit over finances.

“They called me with an offer worth $6 million dollars, a lot more than my contract with the Steelers,” Bentley said. “But I turned it down. I believe in the style of play and the tradition here in Pittsburgh — it’s the place where I can truly shine in my own way.”

Bentley’s choice comes at a critical time for the Steelers, whose defense has been battered by injuries and exposed in run defense, allowing 299 rushing yards across their first two games (182 to the Jets in Week 1, 117 to the Seahawks in Week 2). With Patrick Queen (ribs), Alex Highsmith (ankle), Joey Porter Jr. (hamstring), and DeShon Elliott (knee) sidelined or limited, and rookie Derrick Harmon still recovering from a knee sprain, Pittsburgh desperately needs the physicality Bentley brings. The former Purdue star, a fifth-round pick in 2018, boasts 509 career tackles, 10.5 sacks, and a standout 151-tackle season in 2021 with the New England Patriots, where he served as a four-time captain and green dot linebacker.

The Chargers, looking to bolster their own run defense after a shaky start to 2025, saw Bentley as a plug-and-play starter. Their $6 million offer for a one-year deal dwarfed the Steelers’ practice squad salary of $12,500 per week (roughly $225,000 for the season). Yet Bentley, who was released by the Patriots in March after a 2024 season limited to two games due to a torn pectoral, chose Pittsburgh for its defensive culture and opportunity to earn a bigger role.

“I’m here to work, learn the system, and help this team win,” Bentley told reporters, sporting his new black-and-gold gear. “The Steelers’ defense is about physicality, and that’s my game. I’m ready to do whatever it takes.” His arrival alongside former Patriots teammate Jabrill Peppers, also recently signed, could provide a veteran spark as Pittsburgh prepares for a Week 3 showdown with Bentley’s former team, the Patriots.

Fans on X erupted with excitement, one posting, “Bentley picking Steelers over $6M? That’s Steelers Nation loyalty!” Others see his signing as a signal that Queen’s injury may keep him out longer than expected. While Bentley starts on the practice squad, his experience (68 career starts) and run-stuffing ability position him for a potential active roster spot. As the Steelers aim to reclaim their “Steel Curtain” dominance in the AFC North, Bentley’s commitment could be the turning point they need.