The Pittsburgh Steelers have officially released defensive end Blake Mangelson, a roster move that might seem minor on paper — but it speaks volumes about the team’s direction and priorities as offseason work ramps up.
Mangelson, a former BYU product, signed a reserve/futures contract with the Steelers in January 2024, shortly after the regular season ended. These types of contracts are typically handed out to developmental players the team wants to take a longer look at in the offseason. But after just a few weeks of Organized Team Activities (OTAs), Pittsburgh decided to part ways.
We have released DE Blake Mangelson. @BordasLaw
— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) May 30, 2025
So why the move now?
According to Steelers Depot, the release was likely a reflection of internal evaluations made during OTAs, where depth chart clarity begins to take shape. Pittsburgh’s defensive line — especially the edge/DE spots — is already crowded with a blend of veterans, emerging talents, and incoming rookies. In that mix, Mangelson simply didn’t make enough noise to earn continued reps.
No official statement has been released from the Steelers or Mangelson, but the timing suggests the team is actively trimming fringe players to make room for more viable roster competition.
Steelers fans, especially those closely following camp reports, weren’t surprised. In fact, some — like “Mike,” a frequent name in fan forums — greeted the news with satisfaction, even humor. It’s the kind of low-stakes move that signals focus: Pittsburgh is here to compete, and dead weight won’t linger.
“Look, I’ve got nothing against the kid, but he wasn’t cracking the 53-man roster,” one fan posted on Reddit.
“Happy to see the Steelers staying sharp on evaluations.”
Blake Mangelson’s release may not generate headlines outside of Pittsburgh, but inside the facility, it sends a clear message: this roster will be built on merit, and even offseason contracts aren’t guarantees.
As OTAs continue, Steelers fans should expect more of these micro-moves. With only 90 spots allowed during offseason work — and only 53 on the final roster — every rep, every drill, and every practice matters. Players who can’t stand out quickly may be moved aside to give others a shot.
What’s Next?
For Mangelson, the path forward is uncertain. At 6’5″ and 245 pounds, he still has the physical tools to catch on with another team — perhaps as a practice squad body later this summer. But for now, his time in Pittsburgh is over before it ever really began.
For the Steelers, it’s business as usual. And for fans like Mike?
“One down, 36 more cuts to go,” he joked in a comment — a reminder that the road to Week 1 is paved with tough (and sometimes obvious) decisions.
