Steelers sign Bentley, Hodgins to practice squad ahead of New England

The Pittsburgh Steelers added veteran linebacker JaWhaun Bentley and receiver Isaiah Hodgins to their practice squad on Wednesday as they scramble to shore up a defensively battered roster ahead of Sunday’s trip to New England. The moves, announced after Tuesday workouts and reported by league insiders, accompany a flurry of corresponding transactions including the release of practice-squad tight end J.J. Galbreath and wide receiver Rakim Jarrett, the elevation of defensive end DeMarvin Leal to the active roster, and the placement of defensive tackle Isaiahh Loudermilk on injured reserve.

Bentley, a 29-year-old who spent the first seven seasons of his career with the New England Patriots, was reported signed by Adam Schefter. A fifth-round pick in 2018, Bentley started 68 games in New England and led the team in tackles from 2021 through 2023, topping 100 tackles each season. He missed most of last year after suffering a torn pectoral in Week 2. Bentley said Wednesday that the injury was a tough setback but that he was focused on a fresh start with Pittsburgh. The Steelers also made Hodgins’ signing official; the 26-year-old wideout has NFL experience with the Bills, Giants and...