Steelers Offseason Moves: Cut, Trade, and Free Agent Signing

Pittsburgh Steelers make key roster changes ahead of 2026 season

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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The Pittsburgh Steelers are making some significant offseason moves, including cutting a tight end, trading a wide receiver, and signing a free agent guard. The team is looking to build on their one-and-done playoff appearance in 2025 and transition to the Mike McCarthy era.

Why it matters

The Steelers' offseason decisions will shape the direction of the team as they aim to return to the playoffs and contend for a Super Bowl. Cutting underperforming players, trading for young talent, and signing free agents to fill key needs are all part of the team's strategy to get back on track.

The details

The Steelers are expected to cut tight end Jonnu Smith, who disappointed in his first season in Pittsburgh. This move would save the team $7 million in cap space. The team is also predicted to trade wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. to the Jacksonville Jaguars, acquiring a young, explosive receiver to complement star wideout DK Metcalf. Finally, the Steelers are expected to sign free agent guard David Edwards away from the Buffalo Bills, solidifying their offensive line.

  • The Steelers' roster cuts and trades are expected to happen before the start of the 2026 NFL season.
  • Free agency opens on March 13, 2026, when the Steelers can officially sign David Edwards.

The players

Jonnu Smith

A tight end who underperformed in his first season with the Steelers and is expected to be cut to save cap space.

Brian Thomas Jr.

A wide receiver for the Jacksonville Jaguars who the Steelers are expected to trade for to bolster their receiving corps.

David Edwards

A free agent guard who has started for the Buffalo Bills the past two seasons and is expected to sign with the Steelers to shore up their offensive line.

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What’s next

The Steelers will need to finalize their roster moves and free agent signings before the start of the 2026 NFL season.

The takeaway

The Steelers are making strategic offseason moves to improve their roster and transition to the Mike McCarthy era, cutting underperforming players, trading for young talent, and signing free agents to fill key needs on the offensive line and at wide receiver.