The Steelers are making a couple of strategic moves ahead of their high-stakes AFC North showdown in Baltimore, calling up wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling and offensive tackle Dylan Cook from the practice squad for Sunday’s rivalry tilt at M&T Bank Stadium. Both players are expected to revert back to the practice squad after the game, but their temporary elevations speak volumes about Pittsburgh’s mindset heading into a critical December matchup.
Veteran Speed in the Receiver Room
Let’s start with Valdes-Scantling. The veteran wideout brings more than just experience - he brings a vertical threat that can stretch defenses and open up the field. Signed to the Steelers’ practice squad back on November 4, he now gets the nod to suit up for a game that could go a long way in shaping the AFC playoff picture.
Valdes-Scantling’s resume is solid. A fifth-round pick by the Packers in 2018, he’s logged 111 career games over eight seasons with stops in Green Bay, Kansas City, Buffalo, New Orleans, and San Francisco.
He’s racked up 209 receptions for 3,606 yards and 20 touchdowns during that span, but his impact goes beyond the box score. He’s a proven deep-ball target, the kind of receiver who can flip field position - or a game - with one play.
And then there’s the postseason pedigree. Valdes-Scantling has played in 11 playoff games, starting seven of them and scoring four touchdowns along the way.
That kind of experience is invaluable, especially in a late-season divisional battle where every snap feels like January football. He’s been in the fire before, and the Steelers are counting on him to bring that composure - and maybe a big play or two - to the mix.
Reinforcements in the Trenches
On the offensive line, Pittsburgh is bringing up Dylan Cook, a familiar face who’s been around the organization in multiple capacities over the last two seasons. Whether it’s been the active roster, the practice squad, or a stint on injured reserve, Cook has stayed in the system and continues to earn the team’s trust.
Originally undrafted out of Montana, Cook began his NFL journey with the Buccaneers in 2022 before making his way to the Steelers. While he’s yet to appear in a regular-season game, his elevation adds much-needed depth to a position group that tends to get banged up this time of year. He’s also versatile - and in December, that flexibility matters.
Depth with Purpose
These aren’t just filler moves. Pittsburgh is gearing up for a physical, emotional game against a divisional rival, and every roster spot counts. Valdes-Scantling gives them a potential home-run hitter on the outside, while Cook shores up the offensive line in case the trenches turn into a war of attrition - as they often do in AFC North football.
As the Steelers head into one of their most pivotal games of the season, these elevations show a team looking to stay aggressive, stay prepared, and keep their playoff hopes on track.