Home / Sports / Steelers Cut Promising Rookie Receiver After Impressive Preseason
Steelers Cut Promising Rookie Receiver After Impressive Preseason
26 Aug
Summary
- Steelers release rookie WR Max Hurleman
- Hurleman impressed in preseason with 3 catches, 33 yards, 1 TD
- Steelers have crowded WR room, unable to keep Hurleman on 53-man roster

On August 26th, 2025, the Pittsburgh Steelers announced they are releasing rookie wide receiver Max Hurleman as part of their second wave of roster cuts. Hurleman, 23, joined the Steelers in May after trying out for the team during rookie minicamp and went on to have an impressive preseason.
During the preseason, Hurleman recorded 3 catches for 33 yards and a touchdown, while also showcasing his athleticism with an eye-popping celebration. However, it became increasingly clear that Hurleman was not going to make the Steelers' 53-man roster in a crowded wide receiver room that includes established veterans like DK Metcalf, Robert Woods, and Scotty Miller, as well as promising young talents like Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson.
The Steelers are expected to try and sign Hurleman to their practice squad, but he may draw interest from other teams around the league after his strong preseason performance. Nonetheless, the Steelers have had to make the difficult decision to part ways with the promising young receiver as they finalize their roster ahead of the 2025 NFL season.