Why did the Steelers waive Dylan Cook?
The Pittsburgh Steelers yesterday announced the waiving of Dylan Cook for reasons that are unclear. The second-year player spent the first half of the season on the Reserve/Injured List but had resumed practicing. He spent all of last season on the 53-man roster as the ninth lineman. Given the Steelers’ lack of tackle depth, many fans are finding this move a headscratcher.
The Steelers activated Cook to the 53-man roster from IR on Wednesday, but he will now hit the waiver wire. Presumably healthy, he can now wind up with any team that wishes to claim him. Given the short supply of linemen, it is certainly possible somebody picks him up.
Cook drew attention last year in training camp for his quality play, which translated into a spot on the roster. A first-year college free agent, he did not play in 2023, but many viewed him as a quality developmental option.
If Cook clears waivers, the Steelers can re-sign him to their practice squad, which they may well do. Currently, they have Calvin Anderson and Spencer Anderson as their backup tackles. They have rookie Troy Fautanu on IR, but it would be good fortune if he can play again this season.
Cook suffered a foot injury during training camp, and the Steelers placed him on IR with a return designation while carving out their 53-man roster. But it would appear he made a full recovery by now, given his recent activation.
Considering the Steelers’ lack of quality depth, it is far to question why they waived Dylan Cook. Presumably, they feel comfortable with the two Andersons as their backup tackle options, whether fans agree or not. Calvin Anderson played one snap against the New York Giants and allowed a sack in the red zone.
The Steelers’ 2024 season is underway, following another disappointing year ending in a first-round playoff loss. They have had a long offseason since the Buffalo Bills stamped them out of their misery back in January. There are positive signs, but things could jump off the rails any moment.
The biggest question hanging over the team is the quarterback question. Will Russell Wilson regain his job when he is healthy, or is Justin Fields stealing it? How will the team continue to address the depth chart, which is surprisingly still in flux?
The regular season is here, following weeks of camp and preseason games. The Steelers made numerous moves through signings and trade—and release. More than usual, they seemed comfortable creating holes, confident they can fill them. Some they managed to fill, others not so much. Now that we have so many pieces of the puzzle, however, we merely have a new set of questions to ask.
