The Pittsburgh Steelers have one goal in 2025 — winning a Super Bowl. Omar Khan and the front office made that clear the moment the offseason began, aggressively bolstering the roster through key acquisitions and calculated moves.
With a championship mindset comes tough decisions, and unfortunately, that now includes the release of undrafted free agent wide receiver Roc Taylor after the team’s second preseason game.
This one stings a little more than most.
Taylor, a standout from Memphis, quickly became a fan favorite throughout OTAs and training camp. His work ethic was impossible to ignore. Every practice rep was full-speed. Every drill, all-in. He didn’t just come to camp hoping to make the team — he came to earn it. And honestly, it felt like he was doing just that.
In two preseason games, Taylor hauled in five receptions for 77 yards. Not earth-shattering numbers, but certainly solid — especially when you factor in that he was often working with backup quarterbacks and limited reps.
For many of us watching closely, he stood out as one of those gritty, determined players who could sneak onto the 53-man roster and contribute if given the chance.
But as Coach Mike Tomlin often reminds us, 'it’s the nature of the business.'
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The Steelers are in a position where every spot matters, and unfortunately, Taylor was caught in a numbers game. With names like DK Metcalf, Roman Wilson, Calvin Austin III, and Ben Skowronek seemingly locked into roster spots, the battle for the final wide receiver slots is heating up.
Lance McCutcheon and Ke’Shawn Williams are still in the fight, but the pressure is now even greater heading into the final preseason game.
From a personal standpoint, I believe Roc Taylor could have added something different to the Steelers’ offense.
At 6-foot-2, with a strong build and deceptive speed, he was a matchup problem for defenders. He didn’t shy away from contact, and he found ways to get open — often making the most of his limited chances.
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In many ways, Taylor reminded me of past Steelers underdog stories — players who weren’t drafted but earned their place through sheer effort and resilience. And for a while, it seemed like he might follow in those footsteps.
Sadly, this time around, the story doesn’t get that happy ending — at least not in Pittsburgh.
That said, this doesn’t feel like the end for Roc Taylor. Far from it. His tape from camp and preseason should catch the eyes of other teams across the league. He has the size, skill, and attitude to succeed — and hopefully, he’ll get another shot, ideally with a franchise outside the AFC North.
As for the Steelers, the countdown to the final 53-man roster continues. Every rep, every snap, and every catch matters now. Because for this team, in this season, there’s only one thing on their mind — a Super Bowl.
Still, here’s hoping Roc Taylor gets his chance to shine elsewhere. He’s earned it.