Full Breakdown
Steelers Cut Veteran Inside Linebacks Elandon Roberts and Malik Harrison
8/30/2026, 9:58:56 PM
Roster Cuts Overview
On August 30, 2026 the Pittsburgh Steelers released inside linebackers Elandon Roberts and Malik Harrison as part of the league-mandated reduction to a 53-player roster. Roberts had signed a one-year, $1.487 million deal on August 12, 2026; Harrison was on a two-year contract worth $4.75 million for 2026.
Recent Transactions Timeline
- August 12, 2026 – Roberts signs a one-year contract with Pittsburgh.
- August 30, 2026 – Steelers release Roberts (reported by ESPN).
- August 30, 2026 – Steelers release Harrison (reported by ESPN).
Background on the Linebackers
Statistical Snapshot
- Roberts appeared in 157 regular-season games (121 starts) and logged 147 tackles in his two most recent Steelers seasons, plus 10 preseason tackles this year.
- Harrison played 11 games (nine starts) in 2025, recording 41 tackles.
Financial Implications
Releasing Harrison removes his $4.75 million salary and creates a $2.04 million dead-money charge. Roberts’ deal freed his $1.487 million salary with minimal dead money. Together the moves free roughly $6.2 million in cap space.
Impact on Steelers’ Defense
The inside-linebacker group now consists of Patrick Queen, Payton Wilson, Cole Holcomb and rookie Carson Bruener. With Roberts and Harrison gone, Queen and Wilson are expected to start, Holcomb will serve as the primary backup, and Bruener will contribute on special teams.
Official Statements & Responses
The Steelers have not issued a formal comment. Insider reports from ESPN confirmed the cuts; no team spokesperson statements were identified.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Both players were released on August 30, 2026, though the exact order is unclear. Most outlets cite $4.75 million in cap savings from Harrison’s departure; the $2.04 million dead-money figure appears only in a Steelers Depot report. No information on potential practice-squad re-signings has been confirmed.
