In a shocking move, the Steelers released veteran guard David DeCastro on Thursday.
DeCastro was the only returning offensive lineman for Pittsburgh that would’ve started the season at his usual position.
While it’s unknown why the six-time Pro Bowler was released, it is probably due to an injury.
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While DeCastro may be out, it appears the Steeler may have his replacement already lined up.
Late last week, former Carolina Panthers and Los Angeles Rams guard Trai Turner visited the Steelers.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports that Turning is currently in talks with the Steelers to join the team but “no deal yet.”
Turner also said he is “100 percent healthy.”
Pro Football Focus' Steve Palazzolo tells the PM Team he believes Turner could be a good addition to the Steelers O-line.
“He is an interesting one. There was a point in his career he looked like one of the 10 best guards. He went to the spot where everyone dies, the Chargers. He was on his way to becoming a pretty good player. He’s kind of level off the last couple of years. He’s worth kicking the tires on because he’s shown it before. From a run game perspective, he has the ability to maul people.”
The Chargers released Turner back in March, after L.A. reportedly tried to trade him.
The move saved the Chargers $11.5 million in cap space and Turner was limited last season with a groin injury.
Prior to his injury-riddled season in 2020, Turner had been selected to five straight Pro Bowls.
With released DeCastro, the Steelers free up $8.7 million in cap space immediately, money that could be used to sign Turner and possibly sure up another position.
It’s also interesting to note that new tight end coach Alfredo Roberts (who takes over for James Daniel after his retirement) spent his past four season with the Chargers and he also works with the offensive line.