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SOURCE NFL: Steelers Reach Agreement With Former Patriots Star LB With 500+ Tackles and 2 Career INTs

Patriots LB Ja'Whaun Bentley reportedly out for year with torn pec

Pittsburgh, PA – September 17, 2025

The Pittsburgh Steelers have officially reached an agreement with former New England Patriots linebacker Ja’Whaun Bentley, adding a proven veteran presence to their defense.

Bentley, who has recorded over 500 career tackles along with 2 interceptions, brings leadership and physicality to a Steelers linebacker corps that has faced early-season depth concerns.

In his first statement as a Steeler, Bentley expressed gratitude and revealed why he turned down other opportunities, including interest from the Baltimore Ravens:

“I want to thank the Steelers for believing in me and giving me this opportunity. When the decision came down, I turned down a chance to join the Ravens because deep down, I knew I wanted to wear black and gold. This city, this franchise — it just feels right.”

For Pittsburgh, the signing is more than a depth move. Bentley’s experience as a starter in New England — where he served as a defensive captain and run-stopping force — could provide a stabilizing boost for a defense that prides itself on toughness and tradition.

As the season unfolds, Steelers Nation will be watching closely to see if Bentley can bring that same edge and reliability to the Black and Gold.

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49ers Fan-Favourite OL Faces Family Tragedy Ahead of Week 6 Game as Military-Trained Skydiving Instructor Dies in Nashville
San Francisco 49ers rookie offensive lineman Dominick Puni is mourning a devastating personal loss following the team’s Week 5 matchup, as his cousin Justin Fuller, a respected military-trained skydiving instructor, died in a tragic tandem jump accident near Nashville.Fuller, 35, was fatally injured after becoming separated from his parachute harness mid-air during a jump organized by Go Skydive Nashville. His student survived after landing in a tree with the parachute deployed and was later rescued by firefighters.Police confirmed Fuller’s body was recovered in a wooded area off Ashland City Highway. The Nashville Fire Department called it “one of the most complex high-angle rescues in recent years,” commending its personnel for the effort. Justin Fuller, known by the nickname "Spidey," died after a tandem skydiving jump went wrong on Oct. 4, 2025, near Nashville, Tennessee. (Facebook/Justin Fuller Spidey) Fuller, known affectionately as “Spidey,” had completed more than 5,000 jumps and trained U.S. military personnel in advanced aerial maneuvers. Friends described him as “fearless, focused, and committed to lifting others higher — both in life and in the air.” Puni, whose mother is the younger sister of Fuller's , grew up admiring his cousin’s discipline and sense of purpose. Family members say that influence helped shape his mental toughness and leadership on the field. A relative told local media, “Justin taught Dominick that strength isn’t about being unbreakable — it’s about standing firm when life hits hardest. That’s exactly how Dominick lives and plays today.” Puni, a rookie out of Kansas, has steadily earned the 49ers’ trust along the offensive line, praised for his physicality in the run game and poise in protection. Coaches describe him as “wise beyond his years.” The 49ers have privately offered support and time for Puni and his family, ensuring he can process the loss away from team obligations. Teammates have rallied behind him, honoring his family’s resilience and service background. The FAA is investigating the incident, while tributes to Fuller — under his nickname “Spidey” — continue to flood social media from military peers, skydivers, and fans nationwide. “He taught others to fly — now he’s flying higher than all of us,” one tribute read.