Veteran linebacker Joe Schobert was just surprised as anyone else when he heard the Jacksonville Jaguars traded him to the Pittsburgh Steelers late last week. According to Schobert, the trade caught him off guard as he received no indication he might be moved just one year after joining the franchise on a five-year, $53.75 million contract.
“I think it came out of the blue, from my perspective,” Schobert told reporters on Sunday. “Nothing really, no warning signs or predetermined stuff.”
Schobert added that the news was “stressful” as he was just beginning to settle in Jacksonville.
“I wouldn’t say I was sad, no—stressful. A little shock to the system,” he explained.
Steelers gave up a sixth-round pick to get Schobert and fill the glaring need on the inside linebacker position. The 27-year-old player is expected to play an expanded role this season for Pittsburgh, especially since veteran Vince Williams decided to retire before training camp started.
The Jaguars, on the other hand, didn’t see Schobert as a player that would get significant time on the field in 2021. According to Jags’ new head coach Urban Meyer, the team has a significant depth on the position and is prioritizing players who can also contribute on special teams.
Joe Schobert started all 16 games for Jacksonville last season, totaling 84 tackles, 2.5 sacks, and three interceptions. He previously spent the first four years of his career with the Cleveland Browns, earning a Pro Bowl nod in 2017.
