Steelers Officially Release Veteran DE, 6-Game Starter Ahead of Cutdown Day
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The Pittsburgh Steelers have made their stance clear as roster cuts continue to shake up the depth chart.
After three seasons of waiting for potential that never materialized, the front office and coaching staff have officially decided to move on from one of their more disappointing draft investments.
Sources confirm the move came during the trimming of the roster down to 53 men, as the Steelers opted to release the underperforming defensive lineman from the active squad. However, he has been shifted to the practice squad, keeping a faint door open for a possible return should depth issues arise later in the season.
The decision reflects frustration from within the organization, with head coach Mike Tomlin publicly voicing concerns about the player’s lack of effort and inability to secure a defined role on defense. Analysts had noted his struggle to adapt, especially when the coaching staff experimented with moving him to outside linebacker — a role many deemed ill-suited for his frame and style of play.
After much deliberation, the Steelers finally made the call to cut ties. The player in question is none other than DeMarvin Leal, the former third-round pick from the 2022 NFL Draft. Despite flashes of potential, Leal never carved out a consistent role and ultimately fell short of the standard expected in Pittsburgh.
Fans have expressed mixed reactions — some disappointed at the wasted draft pick, others agreeing it was time for the team to “cut their losses.” For now, Leal will remain on the practice squad, but unless a significant turnaround occurs, his future with the Steelers appears uncertain.
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