Pittsburgh Steelers release guard David DeCastro in surprise move
The Pittsburgh Steelers released star guard David DeCastro on Thursday afternoon, ending an era and creating a huge void.
After nine seasons, David DeCastro is no longer with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
In a surprise move, Pittsburgh released the nine-year guard on Thursday afternoon, making him. free agent for the first time in his career. DeCastro, 31, played all but seven games of his final eight NFL campaigns, making six consecutive Pro Bowls (2015-20) and two First-Team All-Pro squads.
For Pittsburgh, the loss of DeCastro is a significant one. The Steelers already watched as guard Matt Feiler left in free agency for the Los Angeles Chargers on a three-year deal, while left tackle Alejandro Villanueva signed up to play for the Baltimore Ravens. Additionally, center Maurkice Pouncey retired after 11 seasons.
The Pittsburgh Steelers released David DeCastro on Thursday
DeCastro has been having his ankle evaluated recently, sources said. He’s had issues with it for quite some time. Had surgery on it before last season. He’s evaluating his future. https://t.co/pzokwBJ3CT
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) June 24, 2021
With DeCastro off the books, Pittsburgh saves $8.75 million in cap space. And, after having veteran guard Trai Turner in for a visit last week, perhaps some of that money can now be allocated into bringing him aboard.
As the Steelers completely revamp their long-standing offensive line, one wonders what it means for aging quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. At 38 years old, Roethlisberger is essentially immobile, and now is playing behind a group with no proven talents and zero cohesion.
As things stand, the projected Pittsburgh line would be Chukwuma Okorafor, Kevin Dotson, JC Hassenauer, Aviante Collins and Zach Banner from left to right. With due respect to those five men, it’s one of the least-imposing groups on paper the NFL has to offer.