The Pittsburgh Steelers have made several updates to their roster and addressed questions from fans regarding contracts, team operations, and player roles.
In a recent correction, the team clarified that linebacker Jon Rhattigan was added to the practice squad after initially stating otherwise. Offensive lineman Aiden Williams was released from the practice squad, while wide receiver Lance McCutcheon and Rhattigan were added.
Questions about former tight end Heath Miller’s contract history were answered by referencing Spotrac.com, which notes Miller signed three contracts during his 11-year career with the Steelers: his rookie deal in 2005 and two extensions. The response also highlighted that comparing contracts across different NFL eras is not meaningful due to changes in league economics.
Coach Mike Tomlin addressed concerns about defensive lineman Cam Heyward’s participation status. Tomlin stated: “I’m certainly expecting Cam to play (Sunday vs. the Jets). Cam doesn’t play a lot in team development over the last several years. My job is to get him in and out of Latrobe, and I’ve done my job. There are no reservations about his participation or readiness. I’m sure he’s champing at the bit.”
A question about practice squad player movement clarified that if another team wants a player from a team’s practice squad, they must sign him to an active roster contract rather than simply claiming him. Sometimes agents notify the original team before finalizing such moves.
The financial impact of preseason games was discussed in response to whether eliminating them would be wise due to injury risks. The answer noted that preseason games generate revenue through ticket sales and broadcast deals, which contributes to both owner and player income as well as impacts the salary cap. Removing these games could lower each team’s salary cap, something neither owners nor players’ representatives typically support.
Regarding waiver rules and contract statuses on cutdown day, it was explained that all relevant information is compiled by the NFL and made available to all 32 teams.
The process for selecting team captains was described as being determined by player votes rather than appointments by coaches or management. Being named captain is seen as recognition of contributions on and off the field.
Practice squad salaries for 2025 range between $13,000-$22,000 per week over an 18-week regular season, resulting in total earnings between $234,000 and $396,000 for those on the squad throughout the season.
Concerns about depth at wide receiver were addressed by noting that injuries to key receivers can significantly affect any team’s passing game but acquiring proven talent is not always straightforward due to competition among teams and other factors such as health or trade demands.
On uniform design influence, it was stated there is no direct input or sway from staff responding to fan questions regarding color rush uniforms inspired by past designs; merchandise sales remain a primary driver behind such initiatives.
Special teams leadership history included mention of Rosie Nix’s role as special teams captain in 2019 after transitioning positions during his career. Fred McAfee was highlighted as an example of building a long NFL career primarily through special teams contributions with five seasons spent with Pittsburgh.
Finally, clarification was provided regarding waivers: when a player is claimed off waivers by another team, that new team assumes responsibility for his existing contract rather than negotiating a new one.
