The Steelers will have some new faces when OTAs start later in the spring, after signing former Chargers tight end Ladarius Green and Broncos tackle Ryan Harris.
Both players, who were unrestricted free agents, were well-respected and drew praise from their former coaches, who shared their thoughts during the NFL Owners Meetings.
"He is a great guy," said Chargers Coach Mike McCoy of Green. "Everyone on the team loves the guy. He doesn't say a whole lot, but then every once in a while when he speaks up and says it, he gets the room rolling. He shows up and does his job. He worked extremely hard for us and I wish all the best in Pittsburgh."
Green played behind all-everything tight end Antonio Gates in San Diego, and while he saw his share of playing time, he also learned a lot from Gates.
"He took advantage of being behind Antonio," said McCoy. "When you have a great a great quarterback like Philip (Rivers), the ball is going to be spread around. There were plenty of times both him and Antonio were on the field. He is a very hard worker. He did an outstanding job. He has a bright future in Pittsburgh."
Harris, who is with his fifth NFL team, has played for Broncos coach Gary Kubiak in both Denver and Houston and his former coach likes what he brought to the table.
"Ryan's got a lot of experience," said Kubiak. "Very bright. Great young man. He has been in a lot of wars in this league. He has been on a lot of good football teams. He started 16 games for us last year and did a heck of a job.
"Ryan is a journeyman in this league. He always finds a spot to land and play pretty well. I had him in Houston many years ago and he comes back and plays for me last year. He is a true pro. Ryan has got the most out of himself. I am very excited for Ryan going to Pittsburgh. He'll do a great job."
