According to NFL insider Aaron Wilson, the Steelers are enhancing their linebacker depth by signing Kyahva Tezino.
Kyahva Tezino signing with #Steelers today per a league source @KPRC2
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) August 19, 2024
Tezino entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent from San Diego State in 2020. In his final college season, he recorded 96 tackles, three sacks, and one interception.
NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein described Tezino in his draft profile as a player with “athletic limitations and a lack of pursuit speed,” which could hinder his draft prospects. However, Zierlein also noted Tezino’s natural aggression and toughness, along with his strong instincts and poise, particularly inside the box. While he excels as an early-down linebacker, his range and consistency as an open-field tackler were seen as areas of concern.
Tezino initially signed with the New England Patriots after the draft and has since been with the Carolina Panthers, the Birmingham Stallions of the UFL, the Pittsburgh Maulers of the USFL, and the San Francisco 49ers. In 2023, he ranked second in the USFL with 94 tackles and added two interceptions while playing for the Maulers.
Despite his experience, the 6’0, 235-pound defender has yet to make an appearance in a regular-season NFL game.
With the Steelers’ linebacker group dealing with injuries following their preseason loss to the Buffalo Bills, Tezino could offer much-needed depth as the team moves through the rest of the summer.
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