Clifton Geathers To IR, DE Okafor Signed

It’s that time of year when teams are making frequent roster moves. This time, the Steelers faced the disappointing decision to place veteran DE Clifton Geathers on injured reserve. No immediate word was given as to the nature of his injury. The 6’8″ Geathers had previously played with the Eagles and Redskins. To fill the opening, the team signed DE Joe Okafor.

Okafor was an UDFA in the 2014 draft. After playing for Oklahoma State in 2011, he played at Lamar University from 2012 to 2014. He received an honorable mention for All-Southland Conference in 2014.

The loss of Geathers is a hit to the defensive line depth chart, and pretty much solidifies Cam Thomas’ roster spot. The move does open the door for Ethan Hemer, L.T. Walton, as well as Joe Kruger. It will be interesting to see who steps forward during preseason and takes advantage of the extra playing time.