Steelers add Isaiah Winstead to roster amid receiver turnover
The signing follows the rapid release of Colton Dowell and A.T. Perry, with Winstead expected to compete for a practice squad position.
The Pittsburgh Steelers have signed wide receiver Isaiah Winstead, adding depth to a position group that has seen significant recent turnover. The move comes as the club continues to evaluate its roster options following the release of A.T. Perry and the immediate subsequent release of Colton Dowell.
Winstead, an East Carolina University graduate, brings experience from the United Football League (UFL), where he recorded 36 receptions and four touchdowns in 10 games for the Louisville Kings during the 2026 season. He has not yet appeared in a regular-season NFL game, though he was last on an NFL roster during the 2024 preseason with the New York Jets.
During his time with the Jets, Winstead was a teammate of quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Prior to his professional career, he had a standout final year at East Carolina in 2022, catching 88 passes for 1,085 yards and six touchdowns.
The signing is expected to see Winstead compete for a spot on the practice squad. The Steelers have been actively cycling wide receivers in and out of their roster recently, with other developments involving players such as Pat Freiermuth and Asante Samuel Jr. ongoing during training camp.
Specific terms of Winstead’s contract have not been disclosed. The UFL serves as a developmental pathway for players seeking opportunities in the NFL, and Winstead’s addition follows the team’s recent signing of a former Titans wide receiver.
