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Steelers Release Veteran WR After Preseason Injury, Tomlin Sends Clear Message

PITTSBURGH – The Pittsburgh Steelers are making tough roster decisions as the 2025 season approaches, and one move has fans buzzing. A veteran wide receiver has been released with an injury settlement after a preseason setback derailed his chance to crack the 53-man roster.

The injury occurred late in training camp, cutting short what had been a strong summer showing. Coaches had praised the receiver’s size, physicality, and ability to separate downfield. He looked well on his way to earning the final wideout spot — until an ankle/foot injury shut him down.

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Initially waived/injured and reverted to the reserve list, the Steelers chose to part ways entirely, finalizing an injury settlement that leaves him free to sign elsewhere once healthy.

Head coach Mike Tomlin didn’t sugarcoat the decision, instead sending a blunt message about Pittsburgh’s standards:

“We can’t keep guys who aren’t able to push through and meet our expectations. Around here, it’s about effort, accountability, and living up to the standard. If you can’t do that, you won’t be here.”

The veteran in question is Brandon Johnson, a former Denver Broncos receiver who joined Pittsburgh in 2024. After spending last season on the practice squad, he impressed early in camp before the injury derailed his momentum.

Johnson’s release likely marks the end of his Steelers tenure, though there’s a chance he could be re-signed to the practice squad once healthy. For now, the team will rely on DK Metcalf, Calvin Austin III, and Roman Wilson as their top three receivers, with depth provided by Scotty Miller and Ben Skowronek.

Pittsburgh is expected to monitor the market for additional help at wide receiver, particularly if injuries strike during the regular season. But the message is clear: this team is moving forward with players who embody the toughness and consistency the Steelers demand.

Tre'von Moehrig Lavishes Praise on the One Who Replaced Him in His Absence
Can you believe it? A veteran star of the Carolina Panthers, Tre'von Moehrig, was suspended for a notorious "punch below the belt," but instead of being jealous, he's showering praise on his "replacement"! What's going on with this team? Read now for the "hot off the press" details from Week 13! The Carolina Panthers just caused an earthquake by defeating the Los Angeles Rams in Week 13, despite missing a slew of key players. Under the "wizardry" of head coach Dave Canales, the team showcased incredible resilience. But the real spotlight belongs to Tre'von Moehrig – the Panthers' top safety, who's sidelined due to a suspension after punching wide receiver Jauan Jennings from the San Francisco 49ers below the belt. Yet, instead of sulking, Moehrig watched from home and... "went wild" over the performance of the rookie who stepped in for him! That's none other than Lathan Ransom, the young gun selected in the 4th round of the draft, who "stole" Moehrig's spot and turned it into his own stage. Ransom not only led the team with 11 tackles but also made his mark with a "top-notch" sack! Moehrig, with his wealth of experience, couldn't hide his excitement: "Man, I was hype (for Lathan Ransom's sack). I could see it all as the play was happening. I was like, Oh, there you go. I could see it all the way. So I was happy for him to get his first sack. He had a great game, and I'm just excited. Sky's the limit for him." (Translation: "Oh man, I was so hyped (for Lathan Ransom's sack). I could see everything as the play unfolded. I was like, Oh, there you go. I saw it all the way. So I was happy for him to get his first sack. He had a great game, and I'm just excited. The sky's the limit for him." This "sweet as honey" praise from Moehrig not only affirms Ransom's talent but also raises the question: Is this "replacement" threatening the starting positions of Moehrig and Nick Scott – the current starting safety duo? Panthers fans have been "whispering" about this for a while, after witnessing Ransom shine in summer practices and his flashy cameo appearances. With this impressive performance, Ransom is sure to get more opportunities, especially as the Panthers are "heating up" in the race for the NFC South championship! At 23 years old, Ransom is seen as a "rough diamond" with explosive potential, thanks to the Panthers' sharp personnel strategy. And Moehrig? This guy was signed as a "bargain" from the free agent market, and his leadership and positive attitude have completely transformed the team's defense in just his first season. That influence is spreading strongly to Ransom – the kid who shares many similarities and is gradually "transforming" into a future star. But that's not all – the lesson from Moehrig is accelerating the "youth revolution" at the Panthers! With this public praise, Moehrig isn't just acknowledging Ransom's growth but also igniting ambition for the entire team. Will the Panthers continue to "soar high" with this new generation? Don't miss out – follow now for the next drama in the NFL!