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Steelers to Add Returner Raheem Blackshear to Practice Squad, per Reports

The move targets Pittsburgh's unsettled return units after recent miscues and injuries.

Overview

  • ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that Pittsburgh is signing veteran RB/returner Raheem Blackshear to the practice squad, a move echoed by multiple outlets.
  • The Steelers had not issued an official transaction notice or corresponding roster move as of the latest reports late Monday.
  • Blackshear, 26, has 41 NFL games with Carolina from 2022–24 and owns career averages of 26.3 yards on 66 kick returns and 8.7 yards on 23 punt returns.
  • Pittsburgh has cycled through return options after rookie Kaleb Johnson was demoted in Week 2, with Kenneth Gainwell and practice-squad call-up Trey Sermon also handling duties.
  • If finalized, Blackshear could be a candidate for game-day elevation, particularly if punt returner Calvin Austin III remains sidelined with a shoulder injury.