The Steelers released 22 players Saturday, trimming their roster down to 53 in preparation for their Week 1 clash with the Cleveland Browns. Among the 22 cuts is LB Chris Carter.
Carter has spent his first three seasons with the Steelers and has been a spot starter as a backup linebacker, but he failed to make a significant impact when in the lineup.
The remaining players released from the organization today were:
Tight ends Rob Blanchflower, Bryce Davis, and David Paulson. Defensive backs Isaiah Green, Shaquille Richardson, Dayonne Nunley, and Ross Ventrone. Running backs Josh Harris and Stephen Houston. Defensive linemen Ethan Hemer, Josh Mauro, Roy Philon and Nick Williams. Linebackers Howard Jones and Dan Molls. Wide receivers Derek Moye and Lanear Sampson. Offensive linemen Guy Whimper, Will Simmons, and Graham Pocic. Also released was quarterback Brendon Kay.
The Steelers head into the 2014 season after failing to reach the playoffs the last two years. After consecutive 8-8 campaigns, they reloaded on defensive players in free agency and the draft, including their top two draft picks, linebacker Ryan Shazier and defensive lineman Stephon Tuitt. They signed safety Mike Mitchell and defensive lineman Cam Thomas in free agency, but ended up bringing back veteran Brett Keisel to help bolster the team's defensive line.
They finished 1-3 this preseason, and 0-4 in the exhibition portion of last year's schedule.