As the Pittsburgh Steelers put on their pads in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, on July 30, they made a pair of unexpected roster moves.
“We have signed TE Matt Sokol and DB Kyler McMichael, and released WR Marquez Callaway and DB Josiah Scott,” the Steelers announced on X. This move closes the chapter on two potential breakout candidates at positions of need.
Callaway, who was among the wide receivers brought in this offseason, had a standout year with the New Orleans Saints in 2021 but struggled to replicate that success since.
The Steelers had brought in several deep-ball receivers, and Callaway needed to distinguish himself quickly. Ultimately, he couldn’t secure a spot, leading Pittsburgh to choose receivers like Van Jefferson and Quez Watkins instead.
Scott’s release is also surprising given that it’s still July. After Cameron Sutton’s suspension, Scott, a former fourth-round pick, was considered a leading candidate for the slot cornerback role. Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reporter Ray Fittipaldo even highlighted Scott’s experience in an interview, though he noted it was somewhat dated.
What adds to the intrigue is the addition of Sokol and McMichael. With offensive coordinator Arthur Smith’s emphasis on tight ends, it’s curious why another tight end was needed when the roster already includes five tight ends and a fullback.
Sokol, who has previously played for the Los Angeles Chargers and New England Patriots, has limited experience with 53 career offensive snaps and 37 on special teams. At 6-foot-5, he has size, but it’s unclear what he brings that isn’t already covered by current players in Latrobe.
McMichael, the other new addition, is a young defensive back with minimal NFL experience, having yet to appear in a regular season game despite stints with three different teams.
