3 Steelers Likely Cut Ahead of 2026 Season

New head coach Mike McCarthy expected to reshape Pittsburgh's roster

Feb. 5, 2026 at 1:31am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

With the departure of longtime head coach Mike Tomlin, the Pittsburgh Steelers are set to undergo a roster overhaul under new coach Mike McCarthy. Several veteran players are expected to be released, including tight end Jonnu Smith, linebacker Patrick Queen, and linebacker Malik Harrison.

Why it matters

The Steelers struggled to a 10-7 record and an early playoff exit in 2025, leading to Tomlin's resignation. McCarthy will look to rebuild the roster and return the team to contention, which likely means parting ways with underperforming veterans.

The details

Jonnu Smith signed a one-year, $12 million deal with the Steelers in 2025 but had just 38 catches for 222 yards and 2 touchdowns, a major disappointment. Patrick Queen made the Pro Bowl in 2023 and 2024 with the Ravens before signing a 2-year, $41 million contract with Pittsburgh, but his production dipped in 2025. Malik Harrison signed a 2-year, $10 million deal with the Steelers in 2024 but has been an underwhelming rotational player over the past two seasons.

  • The Steelers finished the 2025 season with a 10-7 record and lost in the Wild Card round of the playoffs.
  • Mike Tomlin stepped down as Steelers head coach after the 2025 season, ending his 19-year tenure.

The players

Mike McCarthy

The new head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, tasked with rebuilding the roster and returning the team to contention.

Jonnu Smith

A 9-year NFL veteran tight end who signed a one-year, $12 million deal with the Steelers in 2025 but underperformed.

Patrick Queen

A linebacker who made the Pro Bowl in 2023 and 2024 with the Ravens before signing a 2-year, $41 million contract with the Steelers in 2025.

Malik Harrison

A linebacker who signed a 2-year, $10 million deal with the Steelers in 2024 but has been an underwhelming rotational player.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Steelers will need to make roster decisions in the coming months as they transition to the McCarthy era, with several veteran players likely to be released or not brought back.

The takeaway

After a disappointing 2025 season, the Steelers are poised for a significant roster overhaul under new head coach Mike McCarthy. Several high-priced veteran players, including Jonnu Smith, Patrick Queen, and Malik Harrison, are expected to be cut as McCarthy looks to rebuild the team in his image.