PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – At one point as the Steelers were looking for depth at back-up wide receiver, Cody White and Hakeem Butler played roles in that competition. Both were waived/injured by the Steelers on Monday afternoon as the team added receiver Aron Cruickshank and linebacker Kuony Deng.
White, who’s father works in the Steelers front office, had been with the Steelers since the 2020 season. Undrafted out of Michigan State, White spent time with the Chiefs, Giants and Broncos before landing, and staying, with the Steelers at various times on and off the active roster. The 24-year-old played in 15 games in 2021 and only one game last year with six career receptions for 35 yards.
Butler had eight touchdowns in the XFL this past season and was looking to gain traction in the NFL. The 6’5” receiver had an imposing physique and could use that at times to shed blockers or make big plays, however he was inconsistent. While at times making a tough catch, he would drop routine passes.
Cruickshank was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Bears in May after playing at Wisconsin and Rutgers. He had 413 return yards (370 kickoff-fifth in the Big 10) last season with the Scarlet Knights. At 5’10”, 170 pounds, Cruickshank also had 385 yards receiving and 115 yards rushing with four career kickoff-return touchdowns, five receiving TDs and three rushing.
Deng was on the Bears practice squad last year after playing at three college programs-Cal, Independence Community College and VMI. At 6’6”, 250 pounds, the 25-year-old had 10 TFL with 3.5 sacks in 19 games at California.
Steelers final preseason game is Thursday night on KDKA-TV.