The Steelers institution has begun the difficult process of narrowing down its roster ahead of the league deadline. Eleven players were released on Thursday, initiating a series of moves to reach the mandatory 53-man roster limit by the 4 p.m. cutoff on Tuesday, August 26th. The team’s decisions impacted all three phases of the game: offense, defense, and special teams.
Defensive Departures
Table of Contents
- 1. Defensive Departures
- 2. Offensive Adjustments
- 3. Special Teams Update
- 4. Understanding NFL roster Cuts
- 5. Frequently Asked Questions About NFL Roster Cuts
- 6. What impact is the shift of Dan Moore Jr. to right tackle expected to have on the Steelers’ offensive line performance?
- 7. Pittsburgh Steelers Announce Initial Roster Adjustments for the Upcoming Season
- 8. Offensive Line Shuffle: Protecting Russell Wilson
- 9. Wide Receiver Corps: Competition Heats Up
- 10. Defensive backfield: Secondary Stability
- 11. Special Teams Updates: Kicker Battle
- 12. Injury Report & Practice squad Implications
Among those departing on the defensive side of the ball was Linebacker Kenny Willekes. He was joined by defensive Backs Kam Alexander, Quindell Johnson, Kyler McMichael, and Mikey Victor, all of whom were informed of their release today. These moves suggest the Steelers have solidified their depth chart at those positions, prioritizing players who demonstrated greater potential during training camp and pre-season games.
Offensive Adjustments
The offensive roster also saw meaningful changes. Offensive Linemen Doug Nester and julian Pearl were released,along with Quarterback Logan Woodside,Running back Evan Hull,and Tight End Kevin Foelsch. These cuts likely reflect the team’s evaluation of their offensive line depth, quarterback competition, and the overall performance of their running back and tight end groups. The NFL’s emphasis on strong offensive line play frequently enough leads to tough decisions in this phase of roster construction.
Special Teams Update
One special teams player, Long Snapper Jake McQuaide, was also released as the Steelers refine their specialist unit. The long snapper position, while often overlooked, is crucial for successful punt and field goal operations. The team will likely evaluate remaining options to ensure stability and reliability at this key role.
| Position | Player Name |
|---|---|
| Linebacker | Kenny Willekes |
| Defensive Back | Kam Alexander |
| Defensive Back | Quindell Johnson |
| Defensive Back | Kyler McMichael |
| Defensive Back | mikey Victor |
| offensive Lineman | doug Nester |
| Offensive Lineman | Julian Pearl |
| Quarterback | Logan Woodside |
| Running Back | Evan Hull |
| Tight End | Kevin Foelsch |
| long Snapper | Jake McQuaide |
Did You Know? NFL teams often stagger roster cuts to allow other teams opportunities to claim players off waivers, potentially recouping draft picks or receiving trade offers.
Pro Tip: Keep a close watch on waiver wire activity following these cuts, as released players can quickly find new homes with teams in need of depth.
What impact will these roster moves have on the Steelers’ performance this season? And how will the released players fare in their search for new opportunities?
Understanding NFL roster Cuts
The NFL’s roster cut process is a crucial element of team building.Each team begins training camp with a larger roster, typically around 90 players, and must reduce it to 53 players by a specific deadline. this process is highly competitive and involves evaluating players based on their skills, performance in training camp and pre-season games, and their fit within the team’s overall scheme. Cuts are often based not just on talent, but on positional needs, salary cap considerations, and special teams contributions. According to data from Spotrac, the average NFL team carries around 69 players on its roster, including practice squad members, throughout the regular season. Spotrac
Frequently Asked Questions About NFL Roster Cuts
- What is the deadline for NFL roster cuts? The deadline for teams to finalize their 53-man rosters is typically the Tuesday following the final pre-season game, which for the Steelers this year is August 26th.
- What happens to players who are cut? Cut players become free agents and are eligible to be signed by any team in the league.
- What is the NFL waiver system? The waiver system gives teams with lower roster totals the first prospect to claim recently released players.
- Why do teams release players if they need depth? Teams may release players to create space for players they believe have more potential or better fit their scheme.
- How do roster cuts affect the Steelers’ chances this season? The effectiveness of the Steelers’ roster cuts will depend on how well the remaining players perform and whether they can adequately fill any gaps left by the released players.
Share your thoughts on the Steelers’ roster moves in the comments below!
What impact is the shift of Dan Moore Jr. to right tackle expected to have on the Steelers’ offensive line performance?
Pittsburgh Steelers Announce Initial Roster Adjustments for the Upcoming Season
Offensive Line Shuffle: Protecting Russell Wilson
The Pittsburgh Steelers have made several key adjustments to their offensive line as they prepare for the 2025-2026 NFL season, with a clear focus on bolstering protection for quarterback Russell Wilson. These changes come after a 2024-2025 season where pass protection was identified as a critical area for improvement.
Dan Moore Jr. Moves to right Tackle: After starting at left tackle, Moore will transition to the right side, aiming to solidify that position. This move is largely due to the Steelers’ acquisition of a new left tackle (see below).
New Acquisition: Trevor Penning (Trade from New Orleans Saints): The steelers traded a 2026 third-round pick to the Saints for Penning, a promising young tackle who will compete for the starting left tackle role. Penning’s athleticism and potential are seen as a meaningful upgrade.
Depth Concerns addressed: Veteran offensive lineman James Daniels has been placed on injured reserve with a knee injury sustained during training camp. This prompted the signing of free agent, Cole Van lanen, to provide much-needed depth.
these adjustments are crucial for the Steelers’ offensive strategy, which heavily relies on Wilson’s ability to make plays from the pocket. Improved offensive line play is expected to translate to a more efficient passing game and reduced pressure on the quarterback. Key terms related to this include offensive tackle, pass protection, NFL roster moves, and quarterback protection.
Wide Receiver Corps: Competition Heats Up
The wide receiver position is seeing intense competition, with several players vying for limited roster spots. the Steelers are looking for a consistent target alongside George Pickens.
Calvin Austin III Emerging: Austin III has shown significant improvement during training camp, demonstrating a knack for creating separation and making contested catches. He’s currently projected as the WR2.
Romulus Mitchell’s Performance: Undrafted rookie Romulus Mitchell has turned heads with his speed and route-running ability, perhaps earning a spot on the 53-man roster.
Cut Alert: Anthony Miller Released: The Steelers released veteran receiver Anthony Miller,citing a need to give younger players more opportunities. This move signals the team’s commitment to developing its young receiving talent.
The Steelers’ wide receiver strategy emphasizes speed and versatility. The team is looking for receivers who can contribute not only as pass-catchers but also as blockers and special teams players. Relevant keywords include NFL wide receivers, receiver depth chart, rookie wide receiver, and Steelers receiving corps.
Defensive backfield: Secondary Stability
The Steelers’ secondary remains a strength, but some adjustments have been made to enhance depth and address specific matchups.
minkah Fitzpatrick’s Contract Extension: The Steelers secured their star safety,Minkah Fitzpatrick,with a four-year contract extension,ensuring his long-term presence in the secondary. This was a top priority for the organization.
Joey Porter Jr. Solidifies Cornerback Position: Porter Jr. is expected to continue his role as a starting cornerback, building on his extraordinary rookie season.
Depth at Safety: Daniel McCray Signed: To provide depth behind Fitzpatrick and fellow safety DeMarvin leal, the steelers signed veteran safety Daniel McCray.
The Steelers’ defensive beliefs revolves around a strong secondary that can disrupt passing attacks and create turnovers.Fitzpatrick’s leadership and playmaking ability are integral to this strategy. Search terms include NFL safeties, cornerback rankings, Steelers defensive backs, and secondary coverage.
Special Teams Updates: Kicker Battle
The Steelers are currently engaged in a tight competition at the kicker position.
Chris Boswell vs.Bertolet: Veteran Chris Boswell is facing a challenge from rookie kicker Bertolet. both kickers have demonstrated strong legs during training camp, but consistency will be the deciding factor.
Punter Remains Consistent: Pressley Harvin III is expected to retain his role as the steelers’ punter, having shown steady improvement in his accuracy and hang time.
Special teams play is frequently enough overlooked, but it can be a significant factor in determining game outcomes. The Steelers are committed to having reliable specialists who can consistently deliver in crucial moments.Keywords: NFL kickers,special teams competition,Steelers punter,and field goal percentage.
Injury Report & Practice squad Implications
Several players are currently dealing with minor injuries, impacting practice participation.
Najee Harris (Shoulder): Limited participation in practice due to a minor shoulder strain. Expected to be fully healthy for Week 1.
Pat Freiermuth (Hamstring): Recovering from a hamstring injury. His return to full participation is crucial for the Steelers’ tight end group.
practice Squad Focus: The Steelers are actively evaluating players for potential practice squad spots, with a focus on developmental talent and special teams contributors.
These roster adjustments reflect the Steelers’ commitment to building a competitive team for the 2025-2026 season. The team is focused on maximizing its strengths and addressing its weaknesses as it prepares for a challenging schedule.
