What is the story about?
The Pittsburgh Steelers have cut their roster down to 53 players, and their 2026 season will officially begin in two weeks when they host the Atlanta Falcons. Pittsburgh is currently a three-point favorite, per FanDuel Sportsbook
The roster moves aren’t done, though, as Pittsburgh will now build its practice squad.
Practice squads have been expanded in recent years, and with roster elevation rules, the squads can play important roles in not just long-term development, but even game days.
Follow along
here at BTSC for all the latest on the Steelers’ 2026 practice squad.
Steelers practice squad signings 2026
Practice squad basics
- NFL practice squads currently fit 16 players, with an additional 17th spot for International Pathway Program players. Outside linebacker Julius Welschof has filled this exemption in recent seasons for Pittsburgh.
- Only six players on the practice squad can have unlimited past NFL seasons. A maximum of 10 players with up to two accrued seasons are allowed. However, the number of players in those two categories cannot exceed 10 total players. All players with no accrued seasons, or fewer than nine regular-season games in one accrued season, are eligible.
- Accrued seasons are seasons (six-plus games) spent on a 53-man roster, the active-inactive list, or on injured reserve or reserve PUP.
- Teams can temporarily promote two practice squad players per week to the active roster. However, they can only do so up to three times per player before having to officially sign that player to the 53-man roster.
- Teams can “protect” four practice squad players each week from being poached (signed to another 53-man roster) by another team.
