The Pittsburgh Steelers intend to bring second-year wide receiver Max Hurleman , back to their practice squad, a source told Steelers Now on Monday.
Hurleman was among the final roster cuts , and must clear waivers before he can re-join the practice squad, where he spent his entire rookie season.
The Steelers initially signed Hurleman after a tryout at rookie camp last year, and he spent his entire rookie season on the practice squad, without being elevated for a game. He re-signed with the team for 2026 in January.
After a multi-faceted collegiate career that saw him play running back and receiver at Colgate before transferring to Notre Dame as a graduate walk-on cornerback, Hurleman came to Pittsburgh without a position, and he
That "do-it-all" reputation is something Hurleman actively embraces. When asked on the Steelers Afternoon Drive podcast by Steelers Now if coaches have always wanted to leverage his versatility, Hurleman made his mindset clear.
"I want to do it all," Hurleman said. "I want to play kick returner, punt returner, if you ask me to play two ways, I'll play two ways."
Hurleman had three receptions for 46 yards in the Steelers' 28-9 preseason win over the Green Bay Packers .
"Every rep that I get is super valuable," Hurleman said. "Every play that I'm out there, no matter who the group is, just showing that I'm a valuable asset, try to make plays wherever I can, just doing the right thing. Showing that I know my assignment, and not only that I know it, but I can execute it."
Pittsburgh Steelers WR Max Hurleman runs with the ball during a preseason matchup with the Green Bay Packers on Aug. 13, 2026. — Ed Thompson / Steelers Now
A lot of work goes on in the background for a player of Hurleman's stature — studying the playbook, catching balls shot at him from the JUGS machine and running routes even at home during the offseason.
"This is your profession, and we're not paid by the hour," Hurleman said. "I'm just doing what I can to be ready."
Brendan Howe and Chris Ward contributed.
Related Headlines
