On January 17, 2024, the Pittsburgh Steelers signed 17 players to reserve/future contracts as part of an aggressive roster-building effort. A combination of proven and exciting players are part of the signing frenzy, with wide receiver Marquez Callaway standing out among the others.
Marquez Callaway: A Promising Addition
Callaway, an accomplished player who led the New Orleans Saints in receiving yards and touchdowns during the 2021 season, was not previously part of the Steelers’ practice squad. He brings a rich history of play from his time with the Saints, Denver Broncos, and Las Vegas Raiders. Over the course of his career, Callaway has racked up 83 catches for 1,069 yards and 7 touchdowns, not to mention his sizeable contributions to return yards on punts and kickoffs. His addition to the Steelers’ lineup is expected to lend a significant boost to their offensive capabilities.
Other Notable Signings and Omissions
Among the other signees, Denzel Mims, a former second-round pick, stands out despite his underperformance and absence from play in 2023. The Steelers’ decision to sign Mims suggests a belief in his potential for growth and improvement. Interestingly, the Steelers chose not to sign five of their practice squad players, including nose tackle Breiden Fehoko and running back Anthony McFarland Jr. However, this doesn’t rule out the possibility of future agreements with these players.
The Significance of Reserve/Future Contracts
Reserve/future contracts are a common practice among NFL teams, allowing them to secure talent for the offseason and prep for the upcoming season. These signings count against the Steelers’ offseason 90-man roster but won’t officially be under contract with the team until the new league year begins in March. By signing these players, the Steelers are making a strategic move to secure promising talent and strengthen their roster as they aim for a successful 2024 season.
