Steelers Claim Linebacker Marquis Cooper;

Release Center Marvin Philip

   PITTSBURGH — The Steelers claimed linebacker Marquis Cooper and added him to their active roster, the team announced today. Cooper was claimed off waivers from the Jacksonville Jaguars.

   Cooper (6-3, 220), a four-year veteran, was released by the Steelers earlier this year (Sept. 19) and was signed by the Jacksonville Jaguars on Nov. 27. He played in one game for the Jaguars (Week 13 versus Indianapolis).

   Cooper originally signed with the Steelers Oct. 31, 2006, and was re-signed prior to training camp this year. He played in two games and was inactive for a third before being released on Nov. 25. Cooper played two seasons (2004-05) with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and played in four games last season with the Seattle Seahawks.

   To make room for Cooper, the Steelers released Marvin Philip. Philip, a second-year center, spent time on both the Steelers’ active roster and practice squad this year.