Steelers finalize 53-man roster amid surprising cuts and IR moves

The Pittsburgh Steelers finalized their 53-man roster Tuesday but left several questions unresolved, making a flurry of cuts, practice-squad signings and short-term injury moves that reshaped depth across the secondary, defensive front and quarterback room less than two weeks before the regular season. The team announced multiple veteran and young players were waived, while reports and subsequent moves indicated a likely injured reserve placement for rookie quarterback Will Howard and several roster tweaks to follow.

The Steelers announced they cut a number of surprising names, including defensive backs Beanie Bishop Jr., James Pierre and safety Chuck Clark, as well as defensive lineman DeMarvin Leal and veteran wide receiver Robert Woods. Bishop, an undrafted rookie who started six games last season and recorded four interceptions, had emerged as a fan favorite. Leal, a 2022 third-round pick who never fulfilled his early promise, was also waived, according to team and league reports.

Within a day of the trims, some released players reappeared in Pittsburgh’s plans or found new homes. Wide receiver Robert Woods, who was released from the 53-man roster, opted to return on the...