Steelers Could Quickly Lose One Practice Squad Player As Teams Express Interest

The Pittsburgh Steelers brought in veteran wide receiver Robert Woods in the 2025 offseason. Initially thought to be a steady presence in a thinner Steelers wide receiver room, the 33-year-old was expected to make an impact with his experience and reliability. After catching just 20 passes for 203 receiving yards and scoring no touchdowns with the Houston Texans in 2024, Woods arrived in the Steel City hoping to extend his NFL career on an active roster.

On Tuesday, the Steelers released Woods to waivers, a move that raised some eyebrows given the team’s ongoing search for wide receiver depth. However, just a day later, the franchise brought him back to the practice squad, keeping his veteran leadership in the building. While he may not be the explosive playmaker he once was, Woods’ knowledge of the game and ability to contribute in situational roles still hold value for Pittsburgh as they navigate a challenging 2025 campaign.

According to NFL Insider Tom Pelissero, Woods has already generated interest across the league, meaning his stay on the Steelers’ practice squad could be short-lived. Any team in need of a dependable pass-catcher has the ability to sign him directly to their active roster, and that risk looms large for Pittsburgh. If another franchise decides to give Woods a chance, the Steelers could lose a trusted veteran presence before he has the opportunity to contribute in black and gold, albeit on the practice squad for now.

Of course, the most important side of the Steelers possibly having Woods stolen off their practice squad is the fact that he did not even make their initial 53-man roster. Losing Woods would not be a major blow to the team, but it would serve as a reminder that he is still recognized around the league as a dependable veteran presence. For a player in his 12th season, that recognition alone shows there is still some value in what he brings.

Woods initially looked like a perfect fit for this wide receiver room. DK Metcalf is the unquestioned superstar, while Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson are competing for WR2 and WR3 roles. Woods seemed suited to settle in as a reliable depth piece behind them, someone the team could count on in certain packages or in case of injury. However, as training camp and preseason progressed, his roster spot became less secure, and ultimately he slipped to the practice squad.

Steelers Still Could Activate Robert Woods If He's Not Stolen Away

If the Steelers manage to keep him from being signed away, Woods could still provide value by giving the team a layer of security on the practice squad. Having a proven veteran in the building offers stability and leadership to a young group of receivers. 

At the same time, if he was unable to beat out players who earned spots ahead of him, it may simply reflect where he is at this stage of his career. Either way, his presence signals that he still has enough respect around the league to draw attention, even if his role in Pittsburgh is limited.

The Steelers bringing him back on the practice squad is still somewhat exciting. While he is clearly not expected to play a major role, his presence gives the team week-to-week comfort, knowing they could easily elevate a wide receiver who has played in the league for over a decade.

Were you shocked to see Woods not make the 53-man roster? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments below! Please feel free to share your Steelers takes with me on X @anthonyghalkias and follow me.

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