4 scenarios Steelers could explore to boost their 2022 salary cap space

Scenario 3: Steelers cut Banner and Schobert, make Tuitt a post-June 1st cut

This scenario isn’t as fun to think about as it involves moving on from a player who I believe is still a top-five player on the roster when on the football field. Sadly, we currently don’t know the state of Stephon Tuitt, and after he reportedly sold his house in Pittsburgh, it seems likely that he has already played his last snap for the Steelers.

If this is the case, the best thing the team could have happen is for Tuitt to retire and forfeit the remainder of his contract (minus the guaranteed money that has already been paid out). Not knowing what the future holds, the team could be simply looking to get out of his deal in an effort to save money.

By releasing Stephon Tuitt, the Steelers would only save $4.29 million, as he still has a few expensive years remaining on his contract after the restructure last offseason. However, if the front office designates Tuitt’s release as a post-June 1st cut, the team would save $9 million for the 2022 offseason.

While this money wouldn’t come into effect after this date, this would be a significant saving. If Pittsburgh elected to go this route, the team would boost themselves up to $56.9 million in 2022, with the $9 million from Tuitt not becoming available until after June 1st.