Report: Steelers coaching staff not behind release of Jonathan Dwyer

An ominous Tweet by Tribune Review reporter Mark Kaboly is likely to fuel the fire raging over why Steelers running back Jonathan Dwyer was released.

One last thing on Dwyer ... it wasn't the coaching staff that wanted him gone.

— Mark Kaboly (@MarkKaboly_Trib) September 2, 2013

That largely suggests it was a front office decision, which makes sense. Dwyer was on the hook for $1.3 million in 2013 on a one-year restricted free agency deal.

While it's not common we're privy to the internal workings of the Steelers - a traditionally tight-lipped franchise - this gives some insight into the controversy Dwyer's release that's brewing among fans.

Dwyer led the team in rushing in 2012. His 623 yards, though, were the lowest amount to lead the team in two decades, and he only scored two touchdowns. His price tag was a bit hefty for that kind of contribution, but the team kept Isaac Redman, who received the same tender level deal in RFA, and barely played this preseason.

Why keep one over the other? The team hasn't, as of Sunday morning, announced the signing of a player who could justify the desire for extra cap space, so to Kaboly's implied point, even a financial decision seems confusing.

There is a difference between salary cap space and simple revenue, though. A player overpriced at $1.3 million is still overpriced, even if they're paying someone else the same amount for, at best, similar production.

This seems like something that might not go away for a while, especially considering the strong possibility of a team like division rival Cleveland being in need of a back-up running back. (Update: Cleveland claimed former Ravens RB Bobby Rainey off waivers)

More from Behind the Steel Curtain:

• Steelers roster cuts: Everything we know
• Jonathan Dwyer's release: Everything we know
• Steelers 2013 season preview in 9 questions
• Dwyer lining up workouts, as reported by Baltimore Sun
• Geno Atkins signs 5-year extension with Bengals
• Winless preseasons often indicate rocky regular seasons
• Jonathan Dwyer unclaimed on waivers
• Meet Cody Wallace, the Steelers newest roster member
• Steelers sign eight to the practice squad
• NFL Practice Squad rules and which former 2013 Steelers are eligibile
• Getting a feel for the 2013 Steelers
• Derek Moye lost his father before making the roster
• Miller's status still unknown after activation from PUP
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