The Steelers officially placed tight end Jake McGee(Achilles), and tackle Jerald Hawkins (Quad) on injured reserve Tuesday. Both were injured during optional team activities (OTA's) last week at the Steelers South Side facility.
McGee was added late during training camp last season and spent the entire 2017 season on the practice squad. Many believed he would challenge for a spot on the 53 man roster because of his blocking ability.
surgery went great! positive vibes are in the air. #newachillieswhodis
— Jake McGee (@JakeOvaTheWorld) June 1, 2018
Hawkins was entering his third season and expected to make a huge jump into the swing tackle role, replacing Chris Hubbard who signed with Cleveland as a free agent. His career has been riddled with injuries after missing his entire rookie season, and parts of last year with injuries.
With both players being placed on injured reserve before the beginning of the regular season they will not be eligible to return from IR.
Two Added to 90 Man Roster
The Steelers announced the signing of tackle Bryan Harris, and tight end Ryan Malleck to fill the open roster spots.
Harris, 29, has spent time with 7 different teams including two stints with Atlanta after signing as an undrafted free agent with them. He has played in 39 games with four starts.
Malleck, 24, returns to the Steelers after spending time with the team during the off-season last year. He was eventually waived and picked up by the Ravens before signing with Houston in November. After a few weeks on the Texans practice squad he was promoted to the active roster. The Texans waived Malleck at the end of the season.
