Steelers 'easing' DT Larry Ogunjobi in coming off foot surgery

The Pittsburgh Steelers understandably aren't taking any unnecessary risks regarding defensive tackle and free-agent pickup Larry Ogunjobi. 

Ogunjobi was on track to join the Chicago Bears in March on a three-year, $40.5M deal but had that agreement scrapped after he failed a physical for reasons presumed to be related to a right foot injury he suffered while featuring for the Cincinnati Bengals in their January playoff win over the Las Vegas Raiders. 

The 28-year-old underwent offseason surgery to repair the issue and signed a one-year contract with the Steelers in June that reportedly could be worth up to $8M if he reaches incentives. Ogunjobi, who tallied career highs of seven sacks, 12 tackles for loss, and 16 quarterback hits with the Bengals last season, has not yet participated in team portions of training camp practices. He let it be known on Friday that's just fine with him for the time being. 

"They are easing me in," Ogunjobi explained about the Steelers' process, per Joe Rutter of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. "The biggest thing is to be ready in September." 

Nose tackle Tyson Alualu began training camp on the physically unable to perform list because of a knee injury and may not be ready to go when the Steelers open the regular season at the Bengals on Sept. 11. Ogunjobi added he'll be good to play wherever he is needed for that game and other contests. 

"I’ll be able to move around. I don’t have a preference," Ogunjobi noted. "I want to play the 4-(technique), but whatever the team needs me to do, I can do. We’re here to be ballplayers. You can affect the quarterback, you can affect the ball carrier at any position if you play it right. I’m just excited for the opportunity."