Steelers Make WR Moves Amid Michael Pittman Development

Barry Reeger-Imagn Images

Steelers Make WR Moves Amid Michael Pittman Development

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Miracle Dimwesh | Last updated Oct 24, 2026 2:50 PM ET

The Pittsburgh Steelers made three roster moves ahead of Sunday’s matchup with the New Orleans Saints in Paris, elevating wide receivers Brandon Smith and Brandon Johnson from the practice squad and activating safety DeShon Elliott from injured reserve.

The receiver elevations provide options while Michael Pittman Jr. remains sidelined with a foot injury. Pittsburgh placed Pittman on injured reserve Oct. 10 after he aggravated the issue. Head coach Mike McCarthy said the injury would keep him out for multiple weeks.

Pittman missed Pittsburgh’s Week 2 game with the same foot problem before returning. He had seven catches for 89 yards in three appearances before the latest setback. His absence leaves the Steelers without a key outside target and increases the pressure on the rest of the receiver room.

We have activated S DeShon Elliott from the Reserve/Injured List and elevated WR Brandon Smith and WR Brandon Johnson to the Active/Inactive Roster from the Practice Squad. @BordasLaw https://t.co/2RQTdMcYuC
— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) October 24, 2026

Brandon Smith and Brandon Johnson have received opportunities after working on the practice squad. McCarthy praised their effort, saying they had earned their chances, while the team continued to assess options at receiver.

The Steelers also activated Elliott, who had been on injured reserve since Aug. 30. He returned to practice Oct. 8 and entered a 21-day window to be activated or remain sidelined for the season. His return gives Pittsburgh another experienced option in the secondary.

Elliott has played 77 career games, starting 69, and recorded 429 tackles, five interceptions and four and a half sacks. His availability could help Pittsburgh in France.

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. (11)Barry Reeger-Imagn Images

The Steelers face the Saints at Stade de France on Sunday, Oct. 25, in the NFL’s first game in France. Pittsburgh enters at 4-2, while New Orleans is 2-4.

With Pittman unavailable, Pittsburgh needs its remaining receivers to take on expanded roles. Smith and Johnson add depth, while Elliott’s activation strengthens the defense for the international matchup. These moves address immediate depth needs on offense and defense Sunday.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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