Steelers Release WR Gunner Olszewski

The Pittsburgh Steelers have released their wideout/kick returner.

PITTSBURGH -- The Pittsburgh Steelers have informed wide receiver Gunner Olszewski they are releasing him, according to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero. 

Olszewski, 26, signed a two-year deal with the Steelers last offseason with the expectation that he would become their primary kick and punt returner. Last year, after multiple muffed punts, he was benched for wideout Steven Sims. This season, he was not originally set at the team's return man but stepped in for Anthony McFarland and Calvin Austin and continued to see struggles. 

The #Steelers are releasing WR Gunner Olszewski, per source. A productive veteran special teamer and receiver available.

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) October 20, 2023

This season, Olszewski returned just one punt for eight yards but fumbled on the play. He was also questioned when he toe-tapped a kick return at the 10-yard line and stepped out of bounds instead of allowing the kick to freely go out. 

The move likely indicated the Steelers are creating a roster spot for wide receiver Diontae Johnson, who is expected to come off of Injured Reserve for Week 7 against the Los Angeles Rams. Running back/kick returner Anthony McFarland could also be activated. 

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