The Pittsburgh Steelers are facing a bit of a financial puzzle as they gear up for the 2026 season. With just $4.285 million in cap space, they’re sitting at the bottom of the NFL in terms of financial flexibility. This tight situation, as reported by Over the Cap, doesn’t yet reflect the extensions for Nick Herbig and Darnell Washington, which are set to have a more significant impact down the road.
The Steelers are eyeing new contracts for Keeanu Benton and Joey Porter Jr., two key players from their 2023 draft class, and freeing up some cap space would certainly smooth out those negotiations. Plus, having a bit of financial breathing room heading into the regular season is always a smart move for any NFL team looking to make strategic roster adjustments throughout the year.
While restructuring contracts is one route, the Steelers have other, more straightforward options on the table. One of those involves linebacker Harrison, who signed a two-year, $10 million deal with Pittsburgh after leaving the Baltimore Ravens.
Despite showing his skills on the field in 2025 with 41 tackles and playing a significant role on special teams, Harrison is a prime candidate for release. Cutting him could free up $4.750 million, a substantial amount that could be reallocated to other team needs.
Finding another linebacker to join Patrick Queen, Payton Wilson, Cole Holcomb, and Carson Bruener shouldn’t be too daunting a task for the Steelers.
Then there’s the quarterback situation. Mason Rudolph’s spot as the backup is looking shaky with Will Howard making a strong case for the role.
Unless Howard falters dramatically in training camp, Rudolph might find himself either traded or released. With 34 games and 19 starts under his belt, Rudolph is a reliable veteran presence, but with rookie Drew Allar and Aaron Rodgers already in the mix, his future in Pittsburgh seems uncertain.
Moving on from Rudolph could free up an additional $3 million in cap space, which would be a welcome boost for the Steelers’ financial strategy.
As the Steelers navigate these financial waters, keeping an eye on their cap space will be crucial for maintaining flexibility and competitiveness throughout the season.
