The Pittsburgh Steelers chose to offer restricted free agent Robert Spillane a tender offer a few weeks ago. Today the Steelers announced that Spillane has put pen to paper and will be officially returning to the team for 2022.
Spillane didn't have much of an option due to the fact that he's a restricted free agent. The only way that Spillane could've left town or received more money would be if another team wanted him, and would offer him a contract. From there the Steelers would receive a chance to match the offer and keep him, or he'd head to the other team. The Steelers wouldn't of received any compensation because they offered him an original round tender and he was undrafted. The original round tender has the least amount of value tied to it.
LB Robert Spillane has signed a one-year restricted free agent tender. @BordasLaw
— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) April 8, 2022
Spillane has been a quality depth piece the last two seasons, and made 4 starts at linebacker for Pittsburgh last season. Spillane replaced Devin Bush in the starting lineup in 2020 after Bush suffered a season ending injury. He would perform well in Bush's absence, but an injury would eventually end his regular season too.
Spillane has compiled 112 total tackles (76 solo), 2 sacks, 4 passes defended, and an interception that was returned for a touchdown in his tenure as a Steeler. He will look to continue to be a positive contributor to the team in 2022.
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