Issac Seumalo Fired Shot at Steelers GM Omar Khan After Bolting for $31.5M With Cardinals

The Pittsburgh Steelers added to their roster but also saw some key players from the 2025 season walk in free agency. Among those was starter offensive guard Isaac Seumalo who elected to leave the Steel City to join the Arizona Cardinals. He signed on to join the Cardinals on a three year deal valued at $31.5 million. The 32 year old former Pro Bowler improves the Cardinals roster but leaves a gap in the Steelers. 

This is expected to be addressed either in free agency or maybe in the later rounds of the 2026 NFL Draft where the Steelers have plenty of picks and have had a track record of success in that round finding some key players for their offensive line. Losing Seumalo is seen as a blow but it is nothing the Steelers were not prepared for and they are ready to find a replacement. For now, Steelers fans are trying to find out exactly why Seumalo chose to leave. 

Well, on Wednesday he had his introductory press conference in Arizona where he explained the truth of why he chose to walk away from Pittsburgh. During the press conference, Seumalo made it clear that the decision was not an easy one. He spoke highly of his time in Pittsburgh and said the organization, coaches, and teammates made the experience special during his time there. According to Seumalo, the Steelers provided a competitive environment that pushed him to play some of the best football of his career.

"I'll be honest with you, money's good. Can't complain," Seumalo said. "I'm not gonna pretend that's not a part of it... I bought a house out here last year in Gilbert. And then got out here about a month-and-a-half ago. Now, I'm here all year round. I'm super happy."

When free agency arrived, Seumalo said he had to take a step back and evaluate what made the most sense for him at this stage of his career. The opportunity presented by the Cardinals stood out almost immediately. Seumalo explained that Arizona showed strong interest from the beginning of the process and laid out a clear vision for how he would fit into their offensive line. 

The veteran guard said that level of commitment played a major role in his decision. A three year deal at $31.5 million provided both security and a chance to continue playing a major role on an offensive line rather than potentially entering a shorter term situation elsewhere.

"The biggest part is I want to win," Seumalo said. "I want to win with a team that wants me here and I see that with Coach LaFleur. I see that with the group that we have, the group that we're building... Pittsburgh gave me a whole different perspective. Coach Pat Meyer, another great coach and kind of being an older guy there, learning that dynamic."

Another key part of the decision was the chance to help build something in Arizona. The Cardinals are continuing to reshape their roster and offensive line, and Seumalo said the opportunity to be a veteran presence in that process was appealing. He believes his experience can help guide younger players while also strengthening the protection up front.

Former Steelers Free Agent Is Enjoying Feeling Wanted

Seumalo emphasized that his decision was not about leaving Pittsburgh because of any issues with the organization. Instead, he described it as a professional decision about opportunity and timing. He repeatedly thanked the Steelers organization and their fans for the support he received while playing there. However, he did make it clear it's nice to feel wanted in Arizona.

For the Steelers, the departure does create a noticeable hole on the offensive line. Seumalo was a steady presence in the lineup and brought veteran leadership to the unit when helthy. His experience and consistency were valuable assets, particularly in pass protection and run blocking. Now the Steelers will look to fill that void quickly.

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