The Pittsburgh Steelers have announced the release of running back La’Mical Perine, who joins a growing list of recent depth‑chart adjustments at the position. Perine, a former Florida Gators standout and two‑time Super Bowl champion on practice squads, was waived Tuesday afternoon by the team.
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A Roster Shakeup
Released alongside veteran running back Jonathan Ward—who was expected to move to the practice squad—Perine’s departure underscores Pittsburgh’s shifting backfield dynamics. With starters such as Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren firmly in place, Perine found himself buried on the depth chart, spending much of the preseason on the lower end of the roster.
Preseason Performance & Role
During exhibition play, Perine had modest production—logging 16 carries for 46 yards and one touchdown, along with a single reception for four yards. His contributions on special teams were minimal, which, in a league driven by impact across multiple phases, ultimately counted against him.
Career Journey
A fourth‑round pick out of Florida in 2020, Perine arrived with high expectations, having rushed for 2,485 yards and scored 22 touchdowns over four years with the Gators. In college, he developed into a dual-threat back—amassing 72 catches for 674 yards and eight receiving touchdowns—establishing himself as a versatile offensive asset.
However, Perine’s NFL path has been one of constant transition. After initial seasons with the New York Jets (2020–21), he moved through the Philadelphia Eagles and Miami Dolphins practice squads before joining the Kansas City Chiefs. He was part of their Super Bowl LVII and LVIII champion practice squads, though he saw only spot duty late in the regular season and postseason.
Signed by Pittsburgh on May 24, 2024, Perine entered with hopes of carving out a complementary role behind established backs and contributing on special teams. Ultimately, though, he couldn’t secure a slot on the 53‑man roster.
What This Means for Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh’s backfield remains led by Najee Harris and emerging third‑down threat Jaylen Warren, with newly added Kenneth Gainwell further deepening the rotation . Perine’s release not only opens a roster spot but also signals a strategic pivot toward players who can offer immediate and multifaceted contributions—whether on offense, special teams, or both.
For Ward, the expectation is a practice squad slot with potential elevation if injuries or performance issues arise. Boston Scott, formerly of the Eagles, is expected to occupy the other backfield depth slot.
What’s Next for Perine
At just 24 years old, Perine has time to find a landing spot. His experience in multiple offensive systems and familiarity with special teams makes him a viable candidate for mid‑season signings, especially as backfields evolve due to injury or fatigue. A return to a practice squad—or even a late‑season active roster role—remains plausible.
If healthy, Perine could draw interest from teams seeking a gritty, experienced runner capable of stepping in on short notice. His SEC pedigree and physical running style align with the traits NFL teams covet in backfield depth.
Final Take
Perine’s release is a microcosm of roster realities in today’s NFL, where even decorated college stars and Super Bowl‑tied veterans must consistently prove their fit and value. For Pittsburgh, the move reaffirms a commitment to prioritizing immediate production and versatility. For Perine, it’s another chapter—and an opportunity—to showcase his talents anew as the league prepares for Week 1.
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Let me know if you’d like a breakdown of the Steelers’ new backfiel
d rotation or where Perine might end up next.
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