Wide receiver Roc Taylor. Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

Steelers release fan favorite 'camp darling' wide receiver

Originally posted on Steeler Nation
By Anthony G. Halkias II | Last updated Aug 18, 2025 2:24 PM ET

The Pittsburgh Steelers are getting closer to finalizing their 53-man roster for the 2025 NFL season. With several players fighting for those tough-to-get roster spots, every moment counts right now for young players and veterans battling to make the team. One wide receiver who was exciting fans was undrafted free agent Roc Taylor.

The wide receiver has been turning heads in training camp at Latrobe, PA, and was even being referred to as this camp’s "camp darling." On Monday, it was revealed via the Steelers’ official team site that Taylor was being released, alongside LB Devin Harper and DT Breiden Fehoko. Taylor's release makes it more likely a player like Robert Woods will make the roster. Pittsburgh is also having Gabe Davis in town for another visit.

Taylor’s release comes as somewhat of a surprise, given the momentum he was building during camp. The young receiver showcased solid route-running, reliable hands and the kind of energy that quickly made him a fan favorite. In an offseason where the Steelers’ wide receiver depth has been heavily scrutinized, Taylor’s potential made him an intriguing option to watch.

We have signed DB Kam Alexander, LS Jake McQuaide, and OT Julian Pearl & released LB Devin Harper, WR Roc Taylor and DT Breiden Fehoko. @BordasLaw https://t.co/2yw20fU49k
— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) August 18, 2025

Unfortunately, the business side of the NFL can be unforgiving, and roster math often leaves talented players on the outside looking in. His departure will certainly be a disappointment for those who believed he had a real chance of sneaking onto the final roster. As for Harper and Fehoko, their releases highlight the difficult decisions the Steelers coaching staff must make as cut-down day approaches.

The Steelers also made the decision to bring in long snapper Jake McQuaide following the disappointing injury news regarding Christian Kuntz. In addition, the team added depth by signing defensive back Kam Alexander and offensive tackle Julian Pearl, bolstering key areas as they prepare to finalize their 53-man roster.

Steelers could still have a future with Taylor

When a player gets cut, they could be brought back onto the practice squad. The worry is that the player could get picked up by another team, and Pittsburgh could risk missing out on a hidden gem.

The reality is that Taylor wasn’t drafted for a reason. He was always a longshot to make the roster, and at least for now, his time in Pittsburgh has come to an end. He gave a ton of effort and truly did a lot to help himself out. Sometimes in the NFL, your best isn't enough.

It’s disappointing for the fans who saw something special in him. In his two preseason games, Taylor had five catches for 77 yards. He made some nice catches in practice and on the field, showing glimpses of his potential.

Despite this, it just goes to show how competitive these final roster spots are and how difficult it is for even talented players to secure a spot.

This article first appeared on SteelerNation.com and was syndicated with permission.

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