Steelers Cut 11 Players in Initial Roster Reduction

The Pittsburgh Steelers have begun their roster cuts ahead of the NFL's August 26 deadline to trim teams to 53 players, releasing 11 players including long snapper Jake McQuaide and quarterback Logan Woodside. McQuaide's release suggests that Christian Kuntz, who suffered a fractured sternum in the preseason, is expected to be ready for the season opener, though McQuaide could be re-signed to the practice squad as insurance. Woodside was signed in August following an injury to rookie quarterback Will Howard but was never expected to make the final roster due to limited preseason impact. Other notable cuts include linebacker Kenny Willekes and several defensive backs and offensive linemen who mostly served as camp bodies with little expectation of making the team. The Steelers' roster moves reflect a competitive training camp with many players vying for limited spots, as the team aims to solidify a squad capable of returning to the postseason amid significant offseason changes, including acquiring Aaron Rodgers and Jalen Ramsey. More cuts are anticipated as the Steelers and other NFL teams finalize their rosters.