The Pittsburgh Steelers have taken steps to enhance their offseason roster by signing five players to reserve or future contracts. Among the new additions are three cornerbacks who had previous stints on the Steelers’ practice squad. Undrafted rookie free agent outside linebacker David Perales, known for his impressive 22 ½ sacks in 33 FBS games for Fresno State, spent a significant part of the past season on the practice squad.
Cornerback Kalon Barnes, a seventh-round pick of the Carolina Panthers in 2022, briefly joined the Steelers in September after stints with six different organizations. Thomas Graham Jr., a sixth-round pick of the Chicago Bears in 2021, brings 11 games of NFL regular-season experience, having recently been on the practice squad of the Cleveland Browns.
Inside linebacker Tyler Murray, who left his job at an Amazon warehouse in November to join the Steelers’ practice squad, is also among the new signings, despite being cut six days later. Cornerback Josiah Scott, a versatile four-year NFL veteran, signed with the Steelers practice squad before the regular season, eventually playing four mid-season games for the Philadelphia Eagles.
Notably, teams can maintain a maximum of 90 players on their offseason rosters and throughout the preseason.
In other news, the Steelers and head strength and conditioning coach Marcel Pastoor have parted ways after 23 years. Pastoor, who had been with the organization since 1999, served as an assistant from 2001-2021. His departure was confirmed via a social media post on LinkedIn, expressing gratitude for his time with the Steelers and stating his readiness for a change. Marcel Pastoor was recognized by Steelers fans, particularly those attending training camp practices at Saint Vincent, for occasionally participating in player workouts and acting as an extra quarterback for drills.
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