Steelers Reunite with Valdes-Scantling on Practice Squad Amid Wide Receiver Shortage

Key points

• The Steelers signed Marquez Valdes-Scantling to the practice squad on October 20, 2026.
• Valdes-Scantling, 31, was previously with the Los Angeles Chargers and Dallas Cowboys this season.
• The signing addresses a depleted wide receiver roster due to injuries to Michael Pittman, Roman Wilson, and Ben Skowronek.
• Valdes-Scantling previously played for the Steelers in 2025, recording 10 receptions and one touchdown.
• This marks the second consecutive season Valdes-Scantling has reunited with quarterback Aaron Rodgers in Pittsburgh.

Background

The Steelers have faced ongoing roster volatility at the wide receiver position. In September 2026, the team was preparing for the season opener with concerns about player availability. The current signing follows a pattern of practice squad additions to address immediate needs, similar to previous moves involving players like Elandon Roberts and Terell Smith earlier in the 2026 season.

How outlets are covering it

Steelers.com confirms the official signing to the practice squad, noting Valdes-Scantling's recent time with the Chargers and Cowboys. Behind the Steel Curtain highlights the strategic necessity of the move, citing The Athletic's report that the signing was planned before the official announcement. The fan outlet emphasizes the 'thin' state of the Steelers' receiving corps, noting that only DK Metcalf and Germie Bernard caught passes in the previous week due to injuries to Pittman, Wilson, and Skowronek. While Steelers.com focuses on Valdes-Scantling's career stats and history, Behind the Steel Curtain frames the move as a direct response to the current injury crisis and the reunion with Aaron Rodgers.

Why it matters

This transaction stabilizes the Steelers' offensive depth at a critical juncture. With multiple starting receivers on the injured reserve list, adding a veteran with prior experience in the Steelers' system provides immediate familiarity and potential for elevation to the active roster if needed. It also signals the team's intent to maintain offensive continuity with Aaron Rodgers despite the injury setbacks.

What to watch

The Steelers will likely evaluate Valdes-Scantling's performance in practice to determine if he should be elevated to the 53-man roster. The team will also monitor the recovery timelines of Michael Pittman, Roman Wilson, and Ben Skowronek to assess the long-term need for practice squad players.