The Steelers have released rookie defense end Caushaud Lyons and signed outside linebacker Anthony Chickillo from the practice squad.
Chickillo, 22, was selected by the Steelers in the 6th round of this year’s NFL draft out of the Miami University. He was among the team’s final cuts after training camp and, after clearing waivers, was added to the practice squad.
The 6-foot-3, 253-pound linebacker made an impact on defense and on special teams during his first run with the Steelers, but was caught behind Jarvis Jones, Bud Dupree, Arthur Moats and James Harrison in a numbers game at outside linebacker.
Chickillo was likely called up from the practice squad as insurance for Harrison, who is dealing with a broken thumb. Chickillo will wear uniform number 56.
Lyons, 22, made the team as an undrafted rookie despite spending all of training camp with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Bucs cut him on September 5 and the Steelers claimed the 6-foot-5, 284-pound defensive end a day later.
Lyons, who attended Division-II Tusculum College, did not participate in any of the Steelers first three games. Lyons will be eligible to be signed to the practice squad if he clears waivers.
With nose tackle Daniel McCullers still listed as out for tomorrow’s game against the Ravens, it appears that the Steelers will go with just five healthy defensive linemen: starters Cam Heyward, Steve McLendon and Stephon Tuitt and reserves Cam Thomas and L.T. Walton.
Photo credit: USA Today
