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The Steelers had Army Ranger and former Eagles DE Alejandro Villanueva in for a workout today according to ESPN. Villanueva was waived by the Eagles on Saturday during their first round of cuts. The 6’9, 290 lb defensive end saw limited playing time against the Steelers on Thursday, but recorded two tackles.
Villanueva is pretty easy to root for. He performed at the regional and super regional combines this spring before getting signed by the Eagles and competing for a roster spot this summer. Having played defensive end, offensive tackle, and wide receiver at West Point, the Eagles saw the 25 year old best suited for defensive end. Villanueva has served 3 tours in Afghanistan, received the Bronze Star Medal for Valor, and was promoted to captain this year.
If he doesn’t catch on with a team, he says he’ll return to serving his country. “The four years I’ve had in the Army have been the best four years you could ask for,” he said via NFL.com. “The guys I served with … above me and under me … were phenomenal guys. They were good experiences that made me the man I am today. But now, I see this as a win-win situation. Obviously, I’m trying to get to a team and contribute. But if I can’t, then I can’t wait to get back to the Army and serve in the same manner that I have.”
