Steelers sign QB Leftwich

By Neal Coolong  |   Monday, August 11, 2008  |  Comments( 6 )

Pittsburgh Steelers
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In response to losing backup quarterback Charlie Batch for four to six weeks with a broken collarbone, the Steelers signed QB Byron Leftwich on Sunday.

Batch was injured during the Steelers' 16-10 win over Philadelphia in their 2008 preseason opener Aug. 8. He rushed for 6 yards during a broken play, and was hit hard and forced to the ground.

Leftwich played in three games for Atlanta last season, starting two of them, before being released.

Commentary: Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin wondered why Leftwich hadn't been signed prior to Sunday. Most likely, it's because of his lack of mobility and injury history. Ben Roethlisberger's job obviously isn't in jeopardy, but Batch is 6-0 as a starter in Pittsburgh, and he's a free agent after this season.

Fantasy Impact: Roethlisberger has yet to start all 16 games in a season since taking over full time in 2005. He was also sacked a league-high 47 times last year, a combination of factors that begs fantasy owners to keep an eye on the Steelers' injury reports each week. With the offensive weapons the Steelers have, Leftwich would be put into a good position if Roethlisberger misses time.
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About Neal Coolong

Neal Coolong is a freelance sports writer with contributions to Scout.com, AOL and Steelers Live. He lives with his fiance in St. Paul, Minn., and saves every dime (that she knows about) for their wedding next June. He's already made the prediction that the Steelers 2007 draft class will be one ...
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