Steelers Cut Preston Smith Amid Cap Space Moves Ahead of Free Agency

PITTSBURGH, Pa. — The Pittsburgh Steelers have released outside linebacker Preston Smith as they seek to free up cap space ahead of the upcoming free agency period. The announcement came on Friday as the league gears up for a new year, starting in less than a month.

The Steelers acquired Smith from the Green Bay Packers in November 2024 for a 2025 seventh-round pick. However, Smith’s high base salary — slated at $12 million for 2025 — forced the team to make a tough decision. By cutting him, Pittsburgh will save $13.4 million against the cap in 2025 and another $14.1 million in 2026.

During his time with the Steelers, Smith appeared in eight games, recording two sacks and 13 total tackles. The 32-year-old linebacker played as a rotational player, taking at least 17 defensive snaps in his first six games, but his playing time reduced significantly as the season progressed. He was inactive for the final regular-season game against the Kansas City Chiefs and for Pittsburgh’s Wild Card playoff loss to the Baltimore Ravens, which likely sealed his fate with the organization.

“We have released LB Preston Smith,” the Steelers announced via their official Twitter account. The move aligns with the trend of other NFL teams trimming their rosters in preparation for free agency. Earlier this month, the Miami Dolphins released Pro Bowl running back Raheem Mostert and two other veterans.

Smith’s release is surprising considering the trade from Green Bay was made to strengthen Pittsburgh’s defensive line after he expressed dissatisfaction with his role in the Packers’ defense. However, the offseason adjustments, including roster health improvements, left Smith with fewer opportunities on the field, ultimately leading the team to prioritize cap space over retaining him.

Despite Smith’s experience as a second-round pick with 163 games played and 138 starts across his career, the Steelers have other defensive priorities. They enter the offseason with T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith as their starting outside linebackers, while Nick Herbig is expected to remain as a key backup.

With the start of the new NFL league year approaching, the Steelers will likely explore additional moves to bolster their roster and capitalize on their newly available cap space.