Former Steelers WR Unretires to Return to Team

PITTSBURGH — A former Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver has decided to rescind his recent retirement and give it one more go in the NFL.

27-year-old pass-catcher Lance McCutcheon spent parts of the 2024 and 2025 seasons with the Steelers, but it was just under a month ago when he announced his retirement from professional football via his social media.

Retirement didn’t suit McCutcheon, apparently. After a call from his former head coach with the New York Jets and new man in charge of the Tennessee Titans, Robert Saleh, McCutcheon signed a one-year deal with the Titans for the upcoming season. NFL insider Ian Rapoport was the first to share the news via his X account.

Former #Steelers and #Titans WR Lance McCutcheon, who had announced his retirement earlier this offseason, had second thoughts and is now signing a 1-year deal with Tennessee, sources say.

An intriguing resolution for the 27-year old and a new opportunity. pic.twitter.com/HNuK4apJIz
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 1, 2026

Did Steelers Miss on McCutcheon?

The Steelers had a luxury of talented receivers at their training camp last season. One of those players was McCutcheon, who very nearly earned a roster spot out of camp.

During the preseason, McCutcheon was a standout player. He recorded five receptions for 66 yards over three appearances. The highlight of his preseason came on a 24-yard touchdown catch against the Carolina Panthers.

Still, it wasn’t enough for the Steelers to keep him around. He was one of the final roster cuts, and after clearing waivers he was added to the team’s practice squad to begin the regular season. Shortly into the regular season, the Steelers released him from the practice squad, and he finished the year with the Titans.

There was a lot to like about McCutcheon’s game. He moved fluidly, had decent speed and was a able to show promise in small sample sizes. He also has an ideal frame, measuring in at 6'3" and over 200 pounds. In the end, the promise was a bit more than the production, so the Steelers aren't missing out on too much.

Aug 21, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Lance McCutcheon (82) catches the ball for a touchdown as Carolina Panthers cornerback Shemar Bartholomew (27) follows close behind during the 2nd quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Allison Lawhon-Imagn Images | Allison Lawhon-Imagn Images

McCutcheon Reuniting With Former HC

Now, McCutcheon gets another shot in Tennessee, and he gets to do so with a familiar face. Robert Saleh was the head coach of the Jets when they signed McCutcheon in 2023. He spent the remainder of the 2023 campaign in New York and earned a reserve/futures deal for the 2024 season. He would eventually be released a few weeks before the Steelers signed him.

At 27, McCutcheon still has plenty of time to make his mark on the NFL. He’s showed talent at multiple times, and now he is getting what might be the last chance to shine in this opportunity with the Titans.

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