PITTSBURGH, PA — The Pittsburgh Steelers did not tender four players prior to the start of the league year, letting all four hit free agency. As of March 15 at 4 p.m., offensive lineman J.C. Hassenauer, running back Jeremy McNichol, wide receiver Steven Sims and cornerback James Pierre all became available for other teams to sign.
McNichol’s time in Pittsburgh included just a few days of playing. The former Tennessee Titans running back suffered an arm injury early in training camp and spent the season on Injured Reserve.
Hassenauer played the team’s primary interior line backup, operating as a swing guard and center behind Kevin Dotson, James Daniels and Mason Cole. He’s played 15 games for the Steelers the last three seasons.
Pierre joined the Steelers as an undrafted free agent in 2020 and played 50 games, including six starts, in three seasons. He’s played in all but one game during his time in the NFL, recording 86 tackles and two interceptions.
Sims made the team as a wide receiver but ended up being the Steelers’ return specialist. The 25-year-old averaged 25.5 yards per kick return, and caught 14 passes for 104 yards.
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