In a strategic move, the Pittsburgh Steelers parted ways with outside linebacker Preston Smith on Friday, effectively freeing up more than $13 million in cap space for 2025.
Smith, who is now 33, was initially brought on board to bolster the team’s edge rushing capabilities back in November. The Steelers made this acquisition at the trade deadline, sending a seventh-round pick for 2025 to the Green Bay Packers in exchange for Smith’s services.
Unfortunately, Smith’s tenure in Pittsburgh didn’t quite pan out as hoped. He was sidelined for two of the last three games of the season, including the critical playoff matchup against the Baltimore Ravens.
In the handful of games he did play for the Steelers, Smith racked up 2 sacks, managed 1 fumble recovery, and contributed to 13 tackles overall. Originally selected in the second round of the 2015 draft by Washington, Smith is now a free agent, ready to bring his 10 years of NFL experience and 70.5 career sacks to a new team. His career so far has seen him don jerseys for Washington, Green Bay, and recently, Pittsburgh.
