The Steelers’ practice squad is taking shape, and the list comes with a little bit of everything: familiar names, camp standouts, trench depth, and a former central Pennsylvania high school star back in the mix.
Pittsburgh announced 13 signings to the practice squad, leaving the team with 17 total spots and room to use four more. One of those remaining openings is expected to go to veteran safety Juanyeh Thomas, who previously played for Mike McCarthy with the Dallas Cowboys.
Among the more notable returns is Max Hurleman, the former Wyomissing standout who is back on the practice squad for a second straight year. Hurleman is one of the depth wide receiver options, alongside Brandon Smith. Both players made strong impressions on the new coaching staff and could be elevated at any point.
The Steelers also kept plenty of help along the lines. On offense, they added Steven Jones and Doug Nester, both of whom could factor at guard or tackle. On the defensive front, Esezi Otomewo and Kyler Baugh are back on the interior, while Julius Welschof returns at outside linebacker.
Linebacker Jacoby Windmon also earned a spot after putting together a solid training camp in his return to the team. In the secondary, Pittsburgh retained cornerback Doneiko Slaughter and safety Sebastian Castro.
The backfield got two more familiar names as well, with Travis Homer and Lew Nichols re-signed to the practice squad. Nichols stood out as one of the team’s preseason stars. The final addition was tight end Lake McRee, who landed on the practice squad after scoring a touchdown against the Bills.
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Steelers Made A Preseason O-Line Move Fans Did Not See Coming
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For Pittsburgh, the Jones deal stands out because it trims away tackle depth at a time when the line is already under the microscope, even as the front office adds more draft capital for the future. The Cowboys sent back third- and sixth-round picks, and the Steelers also included a fourth-round pick in the transaction, leaving the roster with a different look and a few more questions about how the tackle spots will be covered going forward. [Read more 🡒]