🏈 Steelers Make Bold Roster Move, Claim Former Seahawks Tight End Off Waivers

The Pittsburgh Steelers have made another notable adjustment to their roster as training camp intensifies, claiming a former Seattle Seahawks tight end off waivers in a move aimed at strengthening depth ahead of the 2026 NFL season.

The player acquired is rookie tight end Lance Mason, who previously spent time with Seattle before being released. Mason now gets a fresh opportunity in Pittsburgh, where the team continues to reshape its roster during a critical preseason stretch. �
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This transaction is part of a broader series of roster moves by the Steelers, who also claimed wide receiver Colton Dowell while making corresponding cuts to stay within roster limits. To create space, Pittsburgh released tight end JJ Galbreath and wide receiver A.T. Perry, signaling a clear intent to evaluate new talent and competition at multiple positions. �
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Mason, who played college football at Wisconsin, showed promise as a receiving tight end, recording 30 receptions and four touchdowns in his most recent collegiate season. His combination of size, athleticism, and pass-catching ability makes him an intriguing developmental piece for the Steelers’ offense. �
Behind the Steel Curtain
For Pittsburgh, this move is less about immediate star power and more about depth, versatility, and long-term upside. The team already has established options at tight end, but adding Mason introduces competition and provides insurance as injuries and roster cuts become more common during camp.
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin and his staff have emphasized competition throughout camp, and Mason’s arrival fits that philosophy. Every position group is being evaluated closely, and young players are being given opportunities to prove themselves before final roster decisions are made.
The timing of the move is also significant. With preseason games fast approaching, including an upcoming matchup against the Green Bay Packers, the Steelers are accelerating their evaluation process. Players like Mason will have limited but valuable opportunities to impress coaches and earn a spot on the final 53-man roster. �
Behind the Steel Curtain
Meanwhile, the Seahawks’ decision to waive Mason reflects the tough roster decisions teams must make during the preseason. With limited spots available, even promising young players can find themselves searching for new opportunities elsewhere.
For Mason, landing in Pittsburgh could be the perfect reset. The Steelers have a strong track record of developing under-the-radar talent, particularly at skill positions. If he can quickly adapt to the system and showcase his abilities in preseason action, he could carve out a role—whether on the active roster or practice squad.
This move also highlights the fluid nature of NFL rosters during training camp. Teams are constantly adjusting, searching for the right mix of experience and youth. For the Steelers, adding Mason is another calculated step toward building a competitive squad for the upcoming season.
As camp continues, all eyes will be on how Mason performs in black and gold—and whether this waiver claim turns into a long-term success story for Pittsburgh.