Pittsburgh Steelers sign eight players to practice squad

The Pittsburgh Steelers have signed eight players to their practice squad after cutting the roster down to 53 players. On Thursday, the Steelers announced the signings of defensive backs Anthony Averett, Zyon Gilbert and Thomas Graham Jr., defensive lineman Jacob Slade, fullback Jack Colletto, linebacker Marcus Haynes, running back Jonathan Ward, and tight end Rodney Williams.

All eight practice squad players were with the Steelers during training camp and the preseason. Of the eight players signed, Averett has the most experience as he’s been in the NFL since 2018. He has played in 51 games and recorded 114 tackles three interceptions and 23 passes defended. Averett was a member of the Baltimore Ravens from 2018 to 2021 before playing for the Las Vegas Raiders in 2022. He spent time with the San Francisco 49ers and Detroit Lions last year.

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Another player of interest is Ward who took part in the Steelers rookie minicamp on a tryout basis and was signed following it. Ward originally signed with the Arizona Cardinals as an undrafted free agent from Central Michigan in 2020. In his career, Ward has spent time with the Cardinals, New York Jets and Tennessee Titans and has rushed for 69 yards on 17 carries in 43 games.

Pittsburgh Steelers continue preparations for 2024 season

With the practice squad set, the Steelers can continue to prepare for their season opener against the Atlanta Falcons on Sept. 8. Russell Wilson will be the starting quarterback after competing with Justin Fields throughout the offseason and preseason, and the Steelers added running back Cordarrelle Patterson who can play wide receiver and is one of the most dynamic kick returners in the league.

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While speaking to reporters this week, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin explained why he chose Wilson to be QB1. “Russ’ resume is a unique one in terms of length and success,” he said, per Steelers.com. “That tends to play a factor in the decision-making, but not from a decision-making perspective. It’s just the fruits of his labor. He’s seen and done a lot, and I think that was displayed in the way he played and conducted himself.”

The Steelers finished the 2023 season with a 10-7 record and lost in the wild-card round of the playoffs. Pittsburgh has not reached the Super Bowl since the 2010 season when they lost to the Green Bay Packers.