Steelers Roster Depth
Steelers Announce Thirteen Practice Squad Signings Featuring Preseason Standouts
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Key Points
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Lew Nichols registered a strong preseason showing in 2026, with 87 rushing yards and a touchdown on 20 carries, plus the team-leading 40 rushing yards in the preseason finale, underscoring his potential as an RB3 behind the top backs.
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Kyler Baugh, a Steelers defensive lineman on the practice squad, has a broader NFL journey including time with the Saints (undrafted in 2024), Giants and Falcons, after playing 26 college games at Minnesota (77 tackles, 7 TFL, 4 sacks) and Houston Baptist earlier in his career.
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Sebastian Castro has a multi-team background: originally signed with Pittsburgh as an undrafted free agent in 2025, spent time on the Buccaneers’ 53-man roster, and was claimed back by the Steelers, appearing in seven games last season with two special-teams tackles.
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Juanyeh Thomas remains a likely addition to the Steelers’ practice squad; the 26-year-old safety previously played for the Cowboys (62 tackles in 2025 across seven games) after an NFL path through Georgia Tech, with NFL insider confirmation of the move.
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Doug Nester is expected to rejoin the Steelers on the practice squad after being released from the 53-man roster; his return aligns with the team’s plan to rebuild depth, though he has not yet made an official NFL debut.
The Pittsburgh Steelers signed 13 players to their practice squad following the 53-man roster cutdown, Steelers GM confirms Max Hurleman, Lew Nichols and more practice squad signings|ca.sports.yahoo.com announced by GM Omar Khan. The signings include running backs Lew Nichols and Travis Homer, plus receivers and defensive linemen to shore up depth across the roster. Lew Nichols stands out as a potential RB3 option after rushing for 87 yards and a touchdown on 20 carries during the preseason.
The moves represent Pittsburgh's strategy to build a competitive practice squad while keeping options open for future signings and roster adjustments. Safety Juanyeh Thomas is expected to join soon, filling one of the final spots on the 70-player practice squad as the team chases a Super Bowl title.
Nichols Emerges as Strong RB3 Candidate
Lew Nichols impressed during preseason play, posting 87 rushing yards and one touchdown on 20 carries. He led all running backs with 40 rushing yards in the preseason finale, showcasing the burst and vision the Steelers need behind their top two backs. Nichols also carries a Reserve/Future contract, giving Pittsburgh flexibility to develop him further on the practice squad.
Baugh Brings NFL Experience from Multiple Teams
Defensive lineman Kyler Baugh joins the practice squad after bouncing through three NFL teams in 2025. The undrafted free agent from Minnesota played for the Saints, Giants, and Falcons before landing in Pittsburgh. At Minnesota, Baugh logged 77 tackles, 7 tackles for loss, and 4 sacks across 26 college games, building a strong foundation for his professional career.
Castro Returns After Buccaneers Stint
Sebastian Castro completes a full circle back to Pittsburgh after a winding journey through the NFL. Originally signed as an undrafted free agent by the Steelers in 2025, Castro spent time on the Buccaneers' 53-man roster before the Steelers claimed him back. He appeared in seven games last season, recording two special-teams tackles and proving his value on coverage units.
Thomas Fills Safety Depth as Final Piece
Safety Juanyeh Thomas is expected to join the practice squad as one of the final signings. The 26-year-old played for the Dallas Cowboys in 2025, recording 62 tackles across seven games. Thomas brings veteran experience after his path through Georgia Tech, providing Pittsburgh with experienced depth at a position the team plans to monitor heading into the regular season.
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