Steven

Means

Means has served primarily as added depth since entering the league in 2013. The veteran EDGE was cut by the Ravens at the conclusion of training camp but re-joined the team prior to the start of the season. He appeared on 28 defensive snaps in Week 1 against the Jets per PFF and saw just one play in Week 2 against the Dolphins.

Means, who started 14 games for the Falcons last season, signed with Baltimore in June. Means totaled 81 tackles -- five for losses -- over the past two seasons with the Falcons. He should serve as a depth addition to another roster.

Means started 14 games for Atlanta in 2021. A knee injury he suffered on a fumble recovery cost him three games, but Means would ultimately return after his short stay on injured reserve. Means is an experienced pass-rusher who can start for Baltimore if needed. After waiving Derek Wolfe with an injury settlement, Baltimore had an open spot for Means.

In the process of nearly housing a fumble for a touchdown, Means got tricked up awkwardly near the goal line and collapsed in a heap of pain. He did somehow eventually walk off the field under his own power, but he was quickly ruled out for the remainder of the game. That is never a good sign. Means has been gobbling up snaps since re-signing in April, though he has been a liability in just about every phase.

Means missed all of 2019 with a torn Achilles’ tendon then played on a one-year deal last season, where he contributed 769 snaps across a variety of positions. Versatile depth on the edge, Means returns after tallying three sacks in 2020.

Means missed the entire 2019 season with a torn Achilles. The Falcons waived OT Lukayus McNeil in a corresponding roster move. Means has played 34 games since 2013 for the Buccaneers, Ravens, Eagles and Falcons.

Re-signed to a one-year extension over the winter, Means will miss his contract year after appearing in eight games for the Falcons last season. Merely a rotational piece on early downs, PFF gave Means exceptional marks for his run defense.

Means is a journeyman that found his way into four starts with Atlanta last year. He grades well against the run — posting 14 tackles and three TFLs in eight appearances. Means should return as part of Atlanta’s early-down mix.

Means didn’t generate much pre-draft notice, but the Bucs believe the Buffalo alum offers a lot of upside as a situational pass rusher. He recorded 19.5 sacks and 30.5 career tackles for loss in college. End is a weakness on Tampa’s defense, so there’s reason to believe Means has a chance to play as a rookie.

Means played some defensive end in college and will likely play strong side linebacker in the NFL. Other than Lavonte David, the Bucs have some issues at the linebacker position, but we wouldn’t expect Means to contribute early. He recorded 30.5 career tackles for loss, including 19.5 sacks.