The Pittsburgh Steelers have decided to release offensive tackle Calvin Anderson, a move confirmed by Mike DeFabo of The Athletic. Anderson, who signed a two-year contract last offseason, will be let go as the team aims to save salary cap space heading into 2026.
Impact of the Release on Team Finances and Roster
Releasing Anderson will save the Steelers approximately $2 million against their 2026 salary cap, reducing his original $2.415 million cap hit. However, the team will incur a dead money charge of $415,000. Anderson also had a $500,000 roster bonus scheduled for March 13 that the Steelers will avoid paying due to this decision.
Anderson’s 2025 Season and Playing Time
At the start of 2025, Anderson served as the Steelers’ swing tackle and saw playing time in Week 12 against the Chicago Bears following an injury to Broderick Jones. Despite this, Andrus Peat secured the starting tackle spot by Week 13 against the Buffalo Bills. Anderson then suffered a practice injury that ended his season prematurely. Throughout his Steelers tenure, he played 13 games but was on the field for just 34 offensive snaps.
Game Appearances During Recent Seasons
In the 2025 season, Anderson’s only offensive snaps came at left tackle during the game versus Chicago. In 2024, he contributed at left tackle in matchups against the Las Vegas Raiders, New York Giants, and during the Wild Card Round loss to the Baltimore Ravens. He also played one snap at right tackle against the Washington Commanders.
Player Background and Career Journey
A sixth-year NFL veteran from Texas, Anderson began his career with the Denver Broncos, spending his first three seasons there. After a stint with the New England Patriots in 2023, which ended with his release in 2024, Anderson joined the Steelers on September 24, 2024. Though he did not start any games for Pittsburgh, he served as important depth on the offensive line.
Team Strategy and Future Roster Considerations
The addition of Andrus Peat during last year’s training camp reduced Anderson’s role as swing tackle. Furthermore, the emergence of Dylan Cook late in the season while Anderson was on injured reserve made him less essential for the roster. The Steelers currently have Broderick Jones and Dylan Cook under contract for 2026, both competing for the starting left tackle position, with the runner-up likely becoming the primary backup tackle.
Financial Flexibility and Roster Opportunities Ahead
By releasing Anderson, the Steelers free up $2 million in cap space they can allocate toward strengthening other areas of the roster. Anderson may also find opportunities with other teams that can provide more consistent playing time. Pittsburgh retains flexibility to enhance offensive line depth via free agency or the draft, adjusting to the evolving composition of their squad.
The Steelers are planning to release OT Calvin Anderson, per source. They’ll save $2M of his $2.415 cap hit in 2026.
— Mike DeFabo, Reporter at The Athletic
The Steelers are planning to release OT Calvin Anderson, per source. They’ll save $2M of his $2.415 cap hit in 2026.
— Mike DeFabo (@MikeDeFabo) February 28, 2026
