Steelers Release LB Preston Smith in Cost-Cutting Move

The veteran linebacker was let go after eight games with Pittsburgh, saving the team over $13 million in cap space for 2025.

The Pittsburgh Steelers released linebacker Preston Smith on February 14, 2025, after acquiring him mid-season from the Green Bay Packers.
Smith's release clears $13.4 million in cap space for the Steelers, with no dead money incurred from the move.
In eight games with Pittsburgh, Smith recorded two sacks, 13 tackles, and one fumble recovery but was inactive for key late-season games, including the team's playoff loss.
The veteran linebacker, now 32, has tallied 70.5 sacks and 74 tackles for loss across his 10-year NFL career with Washington, Green Bay, and Pittsburgh.
The Steelers maintain strong depth at edge rusher with T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, and Nick Herbig set to return for the 2025 season.