Former BYU Standout Unexpectedly Cut by Steelers During OTAs

The Pittsburgh Steelers cut defensive end Blake Mangelson, per an announcement. 

The former BYU standout joined the team as an undrafted free agent. He was originally set to join the Minnesota Vikings for rookie minicamp and was extended a tryout, but ultimately decided Pittsburgh was a better fit. Now Mangelson will be headed elsewhere. 

After a four-year collegiate career with the Cougars, Mangelson had 82 tackles (12 for loss), with 2.5 sacks, an interception, and a fumble recovery in 41 games. At 6-foot-5 and 280 pounds, he was said to be one of the most underrated prospects of the 2025 NFL Draft. 

At Big 12 Pro Day, Mangelson ran a 5.01 40-yard dash with a 1.70 10-yard split. He also added 22 reps on the bench, a 7.56 3-cone, 4.58 short shuttle, 29.5-inch vertical jump, and a 9-foot-3-inch broad jump. 

What makes the move interesting is Mangelson reportedly signing a 3-year, $2.9 million contract with the Steelers, according to Sportrac. This opens up a roster spot for the Steelers coming out of OTAs. However, they still have defensive ends Cam Heyward, first-round pick Derrick Harmon and six other players at the position.