Steelers Quiet on First Day of NFL Year

Team announces contract extensions and signs punter, while other teams make bigger moves

Published on Mar. 12, 2026

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On the first day of the NFL year, the Pittsburgh Steelers were relatively quiet, only formally announcing contract extensions for several players and the signing of a punter. Meanwhile, other teams around the league made more significant moves, such as the Ravens signing former Bengals pass rusher Tre Hendrickson and the Bills signing former Dolphins edge rusher Daniel Chubb.

Why it matters

The first day of the NFL year is typically a busy time for teams as they look to make roster moves and position themselves for the upcoming season. While the Steelers' quiet approach may be part of their overall strategy, it stands in contrast to the more active offseason moves made by some of their divisional rivals and other contenders around the league.

The details

The Steelers announced contract extensions for defensive lineman Cam Heyward, linebacker Cole Holcomb, and reserve offensive lineman Jack Driscoll. They also signed punter Cameron Johnston, who returns to Pittsburgh after a season with the Buffalo Bills. Meanwhile, the Ravens signed former Bengals pass rusher Tre Hendrickson, and the Bills signed former Dolphins edge rusher Daniel Chubb. The Cardinals also released former top overall pick Kyler Murray, who is reportedly checking out the Vikings.

  • The contract extensions and player signings were announced on March 11, 2026, the first day of the NFL year.

The players

Cam Heyward

Defensive lineman for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Cole Holcomb

Linebacker for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Jack Driscoll

Reserve offensive lineman for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Cameron Johnston

Punter who signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers after a season with the Buffalo Bills.

Tre Hendrickson

Pass rusher who signed with the Baltimore Ravens after playing for the Cincinnati Bengals.

Daniel Chubb

Edge rusher who signed with the Buffalo Bills after playing for the Miami Dolphins.

Kyler Murray

Quarterback who was released by the Arizona Cardinals and is reportedly checking out the Minnesota Vikings.

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The takeaway

While the Steelers took a relatively quiet approach on the first day of the NFL year, focusing on contract extensions and a punter signing, other teams around the league were more active in making roster moves and positioning themselves for the upcoming season. This highlights the different strategies and priorities that teams may have during the offseason.