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According to Aditi Kinkhabwala and Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network, Melvin Ingram, Steelers defensive end, wants to leave Pittsburgh due to a decrease of playing time.
According to Kinkhabwala the Kansas City Chiefs made an offer to Ingram but the Steelers refuse to trade him to any AFC team.
Ingram had an average of 83.3 percent defensive snaps during the first three weeks. Ingram has averaged 45 per cent defensive snaps in the last three weeks.
T.J. Watt's and Alex Highsmith's increased playing time has caused Ingram's 32-year old to lose more playing time. Ingram played only 100 percent of Pittsburgh's defensive snaps during Week 3. Watt and Highsmith were both recovering from injuries. Watt left early due to injury and Ingram saw more time in Week 2's loss to the Las Vegas Raiders.
Mike Tomlin, Steelers head coach, stated to reporters at his weekly press conference that Ingram snap count is directly tied to the health and performance of the players in front him on the depth charts.
Tomlin stated, "Reps change depending on player availability," as transcribed by Steelers Depot. "T.J. has been absent for a while. Alex Highsmith has been absent for a while. ... Both of these guys are now back from injury. So when everyone is available, there will be fewer snaps. It's only football.
As they seek pass-rush help before the deadline, it's not surprising that Ingram was offered to the Chiefs. The Chiefs are leading Kansas City in pressures this year, with Mike Danna and Chris Jones leading the charge. They need more depth at the position.
Kansas City is currently third in the AFC West, with a record of 3-4. It is still in contention for the division lead. At 5-2, the Raiders lead the division. However, a strong second half by the Chiefs could see them rise to the top.
Kinkhabwala mentions that Ingram might be available for the Arizona Cardinals at the deadline. J.J. Watt, star defensive end, is expected to undergo season-ending shoulder surgery. While Arizona doesn't need Ingram, it would be a great addition.
Ingram was a three time Pro Bowler for the Los Angeles Chargers. Ingram had 49 sacks and 14 forced fumbles. He also recovered seven fumbles.
