Injured Steelers RB Clears Waivers, Reverts to Injured Reserve

UNITY TWP., Pa. — Pittsburgh Steelers running back Alfonzo Graham has cleared waivers and reverted to the team’s injured reserve list, the NFL announced on Thursday.

The Steelers waived Graham with an injury designation on Wednesday, but with him clearing waivers, he will return to the injured reserve list.

Graham’s torn labrum in his right shoulder is expected to keep him out for the entire 2023 season. Because Graham was placed on the IR before the start of the regular season, he is not eligible to be activated at any point this year.

The Steelers could choose to release him with an injury settlement, instead of keeping him on the IR throughout 2023. If they keep him on injured reserve, they would retain his rights for the 2024 season.

A rookie free agent out of Morgan State, Graham impressed this spring with his speed and athleticism. The 5-foot-9, 195-pound running back rushed for 1,150 yards and eight touchdowns in 11 games for Morgan State in 2022.

Graham suffered the injury on Saturday during the team’s 7-on-7 period. He rose up to make a grab and came directly down on his shoulder. Trainers immediately looked at it and Graham was carted to the locker room after suffering the injury.

Graham had been competing with fellow HBCU rookie Darius Hagans to be the team’s fourth running back this season, and had likely been the leader at that position for a practice squad spot when he was hurt Since his injury, the Steelers have added running backs Greg Bell and John Lovett to their 90-man roster.