Pittsburgh Steelers Make Roster Changes Amid Injury Concerns

The Pittsburgh Steelers have made significant adjustments to their roster, releasing running back Raheem Blackshear and linebacker Jacoby Windmon from their practice squad on October 28, 2025. These moves create openings for new additions, including safety Darrick Forrest, who is reportedly set to join the practice squad. The Steelers are also exploring other options, having worked out safeties Eddie Jackson and Vonn Bell, although no official signings have been announced yet.

Steelers cut 2 from practice squadSteelers Release Pair Of Players From Practice SquadCBS SportsSteelers' Mike Tomlin Confirms Organization's Interest In Defensive Help As Team Works Out Pair Of Intriguing Safeties

Blackshear joined the Steelers' practice squad on October 6, 2025, but was replaced by rookie Ke'Shawn Williams, who has taken over return duties. Windmon, who had a brief stint with the Carolina Panthers before rejoining the Steelers on October 8, became expendable due to the return of veteran inside linebacker Malik Harrison and the team's overall health at the position.

Steelers Release Pair Of Players From Practice Squad

The Steelers' secondary is facing challenges due to injuries, particularly the loss of starting strong safety DeShon Elliott, who suffered a knee injury during a recent game against the Green Bay Packers. Reports suggest that Elliott may miss the remainder of the season, although the full extent of his injury is still being assessed. His absence is significant, as he has been a key player in the Steelers' defense, and his leadership will be missed.

Steelers bracing to be without DeShon Elliott for rest of the seasonCBS SportsSteelers' Mike Tomlin Confirms Organization's Interest In Defensive Help As Team Works Out Pair Of Intriguing SafetiesSteelers Release Pair Of Players From Practice Squad

In addition to Elliott, defensive lineman Daniel Ekuale also suffered a torn ACL, further depleting the Steelers' defensive lineup. With Elliott's potential season-ending injury, the team is left with limited options in the safety position, relying on veterans Chuck Clark and Jabrill Peppers, as well as rookie Jack Henderson from the practice squad.

Steelers bracing to be without DeShon Elliott for rest of the season

Head Coach Mike Tomlin acknowledged the team's ongoing efforts to strengthen the secondary, stating, "We're always buyers. We're always trying to position ourselves to be the best that we can be this year." He emphasized that the team is actively evaluating available players to improve their roster ahead of the November 2 trade deadline.

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Despite the team's proactive approach, some analysts express skepticism about the effectiveness of signing veteran players like Jackson and Bell, who have faced challenges in recent seasons. Critics argue that relying on new signings to immediately impact the team's performance may not yield the desired results, especially given the current state of the season.

Steelers' Mike Tomlin Confirms Organization's Interest In Defensive Help As Team Works Out Pair Of Intriguing Safeties

As the Steelers prepare for their upcoming matchup against the Indianapolis Colts, they will need to address the gaps in their secondary. The team is expected to finalize the signing of Darrick Forrest and may consider additional roster moves to bolster their defense. The situation remains fluid as the Steelers navigate injuries and seek to regain their competitive edge in the league.

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