Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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According to a new report, the Pittsburgh Steelers are planning to make a surprising roster move this offseason by cutting a player that fans expect to be back on the team in 2026. While the specific player is not named, the report suggests it could be someone like Patrick Queen, Jalen Ramsey, Cam Heyward, or Alex Highsmith.

Why it matters

The Steelers are typically a team that avoids making unexpected roster moves, so this potential surprise cut would be noteworthy. It could signal a shift in the team’s strategy or a desire to get younger and more cost-effective at certain positions.

The details

A source told 93.7 The Fan radio host Andrew Fillipponi that the Steelers are planning to cut ties with a player that fans expect to be back on the team in 2026. While the specific player is not named, some speculated possibilities include linebacker Patrick Queen, cornerback Jalen Ramsey, defensive lineman Cam Heyward, or edge rusher Alex Highsmith. The Steelers have a crowded edge rusher room, so trading the veteran Highsmith for draft capital or another position of need could be a surprise move.

The report surfaced on February 18, 2026.
The players

Omar Khan

The general manager of the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Andrew Fillipponi

A radio host for 93.7 The Fan in Pittsburgh.

Patrick Queen

A linebacker for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Jalen Ramsey

A cornerback for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Cam Heyward

A defensive lineman for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Alex Highsmith

An edge rusher for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

T.J. Watt

An edge rusher for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Nick Herbig

An edge rusher for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Jack Sawyer

An edge rusher for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

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What they’re saying

“There is someone fans expect to back on the team in 2026 that won’t be. And that move is going to surprise you guys.”

— Source (93.7 The Fan)

The takeaway

The Steelers are typically a conservative team when it comes to roster moves, so any surprise cuts or trades this offseason would be noteworthy. This potential move could signal a shift in the team’s strategy as they look to get younger and more cost-effective at certain positions, particularly on the defensive side of the ball.