The definition of insanity is repeating the same actions and expecting different outcomes. Unfortunately, this seems to be the guiding principle of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who consistently fail to make meaningful changes to their roster or coaching staff year after year.
While Pittsburgh made the decision to move on from Matt Canada, Arthur Smith’s offense—directed by quarterback Russell Wilson—was almost equally ineffective in 2024. With roster changes on the horizon, many Steelers players are set to have their contracts expire this offseason.
However, not every player currently under contract has earned the chance to remain with the team. This is a billion-dollar business, and the Steelers cannot afford to enter the 2025 season with the same issues they faced in 2024. Here are six players still under contract who should not return to Pittsburgh.
Preston Smith, Edge rusher
I was fully supportive of the Steelers’ decision to acquire Preston Smith at the NFL trade deadline. The veteran edge rusher had an impressive career with Washington and Green Bay, so bringing in a reliable pass rusher and run defender seemed like a smart move.
Unfortunately, Smith’s impact was far less significant than expected. By the end of the season and into the playoffs, he wasn’t even active for the Steelers. With a $12 million base salary coming his way, it’s impossible to justify keeping him on the roster (especially considering it was always a rental-type trade). As a result, Smith will likely be one of the first players cut.
Larry Ogunjobi, Defensive lineman
If you’re looking for one of the most overpaid players on the Steelers in recent years, look no further than Larry Ogunjobi. Pittsburgh made a hefty investment to acquire the former Browns and Bengals defensive lineman in free agency in 2022, then extended him with a three-year contract during the 2023 offseason.
While Ogunjobi is a solid interior defender, he struggles against the run—which became a major issue for the Steelers as they were exposed in that area down the stretch. Given his underwhelming performance this season, it’s hard to justify his high cap hit. Pittsburgh could save $7 million by moving on from his contract and redirect those savings toward a defensive tackle who can better defend the run.
Cordarrelle Patterson, Running back
The Steelers gave it a shot, but it just didn’t work out. Cordarrelle Patterson had a legendary career as a kick returner and successfully transitioned from wide receiver to running back in the latter part of his career. He found success under Arthur Smith in Atlanta.
However, those days are behind him. Every time Patterson touched the ball for the Steelers in 2024, it felt like a wasted play. Even worse, the 33-year-old provided no impact as a return man. Patterson still has one year left on his contract, but Pittsburgh should move on and overhaul the running back position.
Dean Lowry, Defensive lineman
Dean Lowry is the epitome of a free-agent signing that fails to make an impact for an NFL team. In need of depth along the interior defensive line, the Steelers signed Lowry to a two-year contract last offseason. Unfortunately, the veteran missed most of training camp and the start of the season due to injuries.
When Lowry did play, he was largely ineffective. He ended the 2024 season with just five tackles, one sack, and one tackle for a loss in 12 games (one start). With a $3.125 million cap hit in 2025, the Steelers could save $2.5 million by cutting ties with him this offseason.
Montravius Adams, Defensive lineman
For some reason, the Pittsburgh Steelers remain determined to keep Montravius Adams around, despite consistently disappointing results. Last offseason marked the third contract Adams earned from the team, but fans should be hoping it’s his last.
The Steelers have repeatedly tried to mold Adams into a run-stuffing nose tackle, but he continues to be ineffective, often getting washed out in the running game. With just one sack and six tackles for a loss over four seasons (46 games) with the Steelers, it’s clear that it’s time to move on. Enough is enough—cutting him loose is the best option.
George Pickens, Wide receiver
This move is sure to spark controversy among the Steelers’ fanbase, but it would be a mistake for the team to continue with George Pickens at this point. Mike Tomlin has given the talented yet immature wide receiver three years to mature, and unfortunately, things have not improved—or at best, have barely changed.
In a game earlier in the season against the Cowboys, Pickens’ lackluster effort demonstrated that he essentially quit on his team. His diva-like behavior has also drawn scrutiny, especially with his questionable responses to the media.
While the Steelers do have a need at wide receiver, giving Pickens a large contract extension would be a mistake. Pittsburgh should look to trade him and acquire draft capital before his value further diminishes.
