Steelers News•Steelers Transactions
Pittsburgh Steelers undrafted rookie Max Hurleman celebrates his touchdown against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Aug. 9, 2025. — Ed Thompson / Steelers Now
The Pittsburgh Steelers have released wide receiver Max Hurleman, the team announced on Sunday evening. Hurleman was among the final roster cuts.
After a multi-faceted collegiate career that saw him play running back and receiver at Colgate before transferring to Notre Dame as a graduate walk-on cornerback, he arrived at Steelers rookie minicamp in 2025 strictly as an unsigned tryout player. He quickly turned heads with his work ethic, ultimately spending the entire 2025 campaign developing on the team’s practice squad.
That “do-it-all” reputation is something Hurleman actively embraces. When asked on the Steelers Afternoon Drive podcast by Steelers Now if coaches have always wanted to leverage his versatility, Hurleman made his mindset clear.
“I want to do it all,” Hurleman said. “I want to play kick returner, punt returner, if you ask me to play two ways, I’ll play two ways.”
Hurleman had three receptions for 46 yards in the Steelers’ 28-9 preseason win over the Green Bay Packers.
“Every rep that I get is super valuable,” Hurleman said. “Every play that I’m out there, no matter who the group is, just showing that I’m a valuable asset, try to make plays wherever I can, just doing the right thing. Showing that I know my assignment, and not only that I know it, but I can execute it.”
Pittsburgh Steelers WR Max Hurleman runs with the ball during a preseason matchup with the Green Bay Packers on Aug. 13, 2026. — Ed Thompson / Steelers Now
A lot of work goes on in the background for a player of Hurleman’s stature — studying the playbook, catching balls shot at him from the JUGS machine and running routes even at home during the offseason.
“This is your profession, and we’re not paid by the hour,” Hurleman said. “I’m just doing what I can to be ready.”
Hurleman was the odd man out with rookie wide receiver/returner Kaden Wetjen making the 53-man roster. if he goes unclaimed on waivers, it would not be surprising if Hurleman lands on the Steelers’ practice squad.
Brendan Howe contributed.
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