Steelers Sign Former Patriots Tight End

The Pittsburgh Steelers have released wide receiver Marquez Callaway, the team announced on Tuesday. They also made the releasing of cornerback Josiah Scott official, which was previously reported by Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.

In corresponding moves, the Steelers signed tight end Matt Sokol and defensive back Kyler McMichael.

Sokol is a 28-year-old Michigan State alum that spent the last two seasons with the New England Patriots and played three games.

Sokol originally signed with the Los Angeles Chargers following the 2019 NFL Draft. He has spent time on the practice squads of the Chargers, Jacksonville Jaguars, Detroit Lions and Patriots. He also spent time on the Chargers active roster, appearing in two games.

New TE Matt Sokol going through some pass pro drills. pic.twitter.com/Fe2wGPDXCp

— Alan Saunders (@ASaunders_PGH) July 30, 2024

In 52 career games at Michigan State, Sokol recorded 31 receptions for 348 yards and two touchdowns.

Sokol was a two-time member of the team’s Eagles leadership council, three-time Academic All-Big Ten selection graduated in December 2017 with his bachelor’s degree in economics and earned his master’s degree in marketing research in December 2018. He was one of 10 Spartans to help volunteer with the Hurricane Harvey relief efforts during the bye weekend (Sept. 15-17, 2017) in Houston.

Sokol has just one career start in the NFL and has recorded no stats. He joins a Steelers’ tight ends room that features Pat Freiermuth, Darnell Washington, Connor Heyward, MyCole Pruitt and Rodney Williams. Williams suffered an AC joint sprain during Saturday’s practice and is expected to be out for multiple days.

The Steelers signed Marquez Callaway to a reserve/future contract on Jan. 17, 2024. Callaway brought a big frame and above-average return abilities to the Steelers wide receiver room. He stands at 6-foot-2, 204 pounds and was an All-SEC returner during his senior season. While he does not have top-end speed, he makes up for it with his physicality. Callaway ran a 4.55 40-yard dash at the 2020 NFL Combine.

The release of Callaway is somewhat surprising. He was among the taller receivers on the roster and with his previous starting experience, there appeared to be potential of him earning a starting spot.