Steelers Reveal Plans To Reunite With Former Veteran Offensive Piece

The Pittsburgh Steelers are entering a new era under Head Coach Mike McCarthy. As the team navigates free agency, they are working to evaluate and reshape their roster. On Friday, the Steelers announced some notable moves, including the return of a former veteran offensive player, Ryan McCollum. McCollum went undrafted in the 2021 NFL Draft and had brief stops with the Houston Texans and the Detroit Lions. In December of that same year, he made his first NFL start with the Lions.

The Steelers claimed McCollum off of waivers from the Lions on August 16, 2022. He spent time fighting to secure a spot on the practice squad and did not make his first start with Pittsburgh until October 20, 2024. His journey with the team has been marked by perseverance and dedication as he worked to prove himself at the professional level. Despite his efforts, the Steelers have never given McCollum a legitimate role. He is however, returning once again.

Now, McCollum is returning to Pittsburgh, at least for the time being. His re-signing adds depth to the offensive line and brings experience to a team that is still shaping its identity under McCarthy. The move signals the Steelers’ willingness to give players who have previously contributed another opportunity to make an impact. It also shows that new offensive line coach James Campen wants some more veterans in that room.

Ryan McCollum spent the 2025 season on the Steelers’ 53-man roster after re-signing with the team in the 2025 offseason. In the 2024 season, he started two games while the Steelers’ then-rookie center Zach Frazier was sidelined with an injury. In 2025, McCollum started one game.

Over the course of his career, he has four starts, but has been part of the NFL since 2021, moving between active rosters and practice squads. His journey reflects perseverance and dedication, as he has consistently worked to contribute wherever the team needs him.

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McCollum is a hard-working player, and both McCarthy and Campen will appreciate having him as a depth option in the offensive line room. His experience and reliability make him a valuable piece for a Steelers roster in transition, adding stability and professionalism behind the starters.

The Steelers have invested in their offensive line and found some promising talent. As the group continues to develop together, bringing a player like McCollum back into the room should help this young unit take another step forward, both mentally and physically.

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