Steelers to Add Former Packers LB

PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Steelers are expected to elevate Tariq Carpenter from the practice squad in Week 10 as they look for added depth at inside linebacker following the loss of Cole Holcomb. 

Carpenter told All Steelers he’s “got his bag” for game day, meaning he expects to get the call. 

"I've been preparing," Carpenter said. "I've been here since the beginning of the season and coach [Aaron] Curry has been doing a great job of just trying to teach me the position, knowing that I'm new to it. I've been doing a real good job of picking things up, so I'll be ready." 

Carpenter is an undrafted rookie out of Georgia Tech who didn't transition to linebacker until this past summer. In college, he played safety but made the move down to the box during training camp with the Green Bay Packers. The move stuck, and he'll get his first opportunity to play the position in a game this weekend. 

The rookie joined the Steelers practice squad in September after being released by Green Bay. He originally made the Packers' 53-man roster and will now make his NFL debut against them. 

"I get to put on that Steeler jersey and say that I'm a Steeler," Carpenter said. "I just got to go out there and put everything on tape. Make sure I get to put it on again. Solidify myself."