Steelers make two more notable cuts as 53-man roster takes shape

Pittsburgh Steelers general manager Omar Khan. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Steelers make two more notable cuts as 53-man roster takes shape

Originally posted on Steeler Nation | By Colin Witte | Last updated Aug 30, 2026 1:34 PM ET

The Pittsburgh Steelers are quickly working their way toward their initial 53-man roster, and general manager Omar Khan is showing that experience will not guarantee anyone a spot. Pittsburgh already made one surprising move at inside linebacker on Sunday, but the organization was far from finished as two more defenders were informed they would not be sticking around.

NFL insider Tom Pelissero reported Sunday that the Steelers are releasing veteran linebacker Malik Harrison. Pelissero also reported shortly beforehand that Pittsburgh is releasing defensive lineman Esezi Otomewo.

The Steelers are releasing DL Esezi Otomewo, per source.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) August 30, 2026

The Steelers are releasing veteran LB Malik Harrison, per source.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) August 30, 2026

Harrison's departure is particularly notable after Pittsburgh also moved on from Elandon Roberts earlier Sunday. Harrison appeared in 11 regular-season games and made nine starts for the Steelers in 2025, but entered this summer facing significant competition in a crowded inside linebacker room.

Otomewo faced a similar numbers problem along the defensive front. He appeared in 12 contests for Pittsburgh last season and recorded nine tackles and one sack before returning to the organization on a one-year deal during the offseason.

Steelers continue making difficult roster decisions

Both releases provide additional clarity at two of Pittsburgh's deepest defensive position groups. Khan and the Steelers still have more decisions to make before the roster is finalized, but Sunday's activity has already shown how quickly things can change during cutdown weekend.

With Harrison, Roberts and Otomewo now out of the picture, Pittsburgh's new-look defense is beginning to take its final shape.

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

More must-reads: