Week 8 of the United Football League just wrapped, and some former Pittsburgh Steelers made some plays. A handful of notable players who once donned the Black and Gold are doing their best to go from the UFL to the NFL. It won't be easy, but Isaiah Buggs, Deon Cain, Tre Norwood, and others have made impactful plays throughout the spring.
Not every former Steeler will make sense for a potential reunion, but they have earned the right to an NFL comeback. The UFL is the perfect place to reset a football career that is on life support. Pittsburgh has brought players in who participated in spring football. Each former Steelers member might not make sense to return to Pittsburgh, but they could land an NFL opportunity.
The UFL is perfect for Steelers general manager Omar Khan to make some late summer additions for training camp.
Former Pittsburgh Steelers are scratching their way from the UFL in NFL comeback attempt
Isaiah Buggs, DT, San Antonio Brahmas
One possible reunion could be with Buggs. Pittsburgh loaded up along their defensive line this offseason, and they could want to continue. Buggs joined the UFL after forming a respectable career in the NFL. He has struggled with multiple off-the-field concerns over the past year. It shoved him out of the NFL and forced him to join the United Football League as he searched for a second chance.
Buggs has only played in three games for the San Antonio Brahmas, but has made a steady impact while on the field. During those three contests, he has produced two sacks and four tackles. He has found a way to rush the passer effectively. A return to Pittsburgh might not be likely, but he could earn an NFL job if he can keep his off-the-field problems from popping up.
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Deon Cain, WR, Birmingham Stallions
After some electric plays with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Deon Cain struggled to stay relevant in the organization. He would show flashes as a receiver but could never put everything together. Cain has played in the UFL for the past three years, which has allowed him to become one of their best weapons. Cain finds ways to routinely make plays in hopes of reaching the NFL.
Cain is playing on the Birmingham Stallions once again. He is leading the United Football League in receiving yards with 436 and is tied for second in receiving touchdowns with four. It's uncommon to see a receiver with a plethora of production in the UFL, but Cain has been taking advantage of being a top target on the Stallions' offense. He should earn another shot to make an NFL roster.
Tre Norwood, S, Birmingham Stallions
Mike Tomlin will be grinning ear to ear, knowing Tre Norwood had a productive week. The versatile defensive back for Pittsburgh is working his way back to NFL relevance. He played at safety and in the slot during his time with the Steelers. After a strong rookie campaign, he fell off a cliff. He struggled in coverage and slipped down the depth chart.
It quickly threw him out of the NFL.
Even though he showed signs of struggle, Norwood was one of Tomlin's favorite players. He is doing his best to gain ground in his NFL comeback bid. He hasn't played in the NFL since 2023, but a strong campaign this spring could get interest from the Steelers and other teams. Norwood only has 33 tackles, but he could receive options if he can express his versatility.
Tyler Vaughns, WR, Arlington Renegades
Another former receiver of Pittsburgh's makes the list here with Tyler Vaughns. He had a productive preseason with the Steelers a few years back and has become a spring football veteran. He has struggled to take advantage of his NFL comeback opportunities in the past, but he could get things right this time. He continues to climb the UFL rankings at his position.
Vaughns has produced 344 receiving yards and three touchdowns. It might not seem like a lot by NFL standards, but he is one of the best receivers in the UFL. Pittsburgh might want to roll with different players rather than Vaughns this preseason, but he could battle for a roster spot. He still has some quality plays left in the tank to shoot for an NFL job once spring football concludes.
Travis Feeney, EDGE, St. Louis Battlehawks
Nine years have passed since Travis Feeney was picked by the Steelers in the NFL Draft. Since then, things have been a struggle to stay relevant in NFL circles. The former star college player hasn't had an NFL shot since 2016. He jumped over to New Orleans after the Steelers cut him, soon after they selected him in 2016.
He isn't a great player, but his long-standing in the UFL could help his NFL cause.
Feeney only has 2.5 sacks on the year, but he has been a consistent edge rusher throughout his spring football career. He has played for the St. Louis Battlehawks since 2023, has bounced from defunct spring football leagues, and spent time in Canada. Feeney must love football, considering how much he has sacrificed to try and earn another shot in the NFL.