“@SteelersPRBurt: Steelers promoted S Ross Ventrone to their active roster and released OL Wesley Johnson.” — surprise cut of 5th rounder
— James C Wexell (@jimwexell) October 11, 2014
With Shamarko Thomas ailing, the Pittsburgh Steelers have made their second major roster move since the beginning of the season. To replace Thomas on the roster, the Steelers have promoted practice squad player Ross Ventrone, who is a Pittsburgh native who made it to the league in 2010 as an undrafted rookie free agent out of Villanova.
- The Steelers signed him to a futures contract in 2012 but cut him in training camp and again in 2013.
Ventrone did make the Steelers practice squad, however and will likely see special teams action this week vs. the Browns.
To make room for Ventrone, the Steelers cut 2014 fifth round pick Wesley Johnson. The decision to cut Wesley Johnson amounts to a minor surprise, as the Steelers thought enough of him to keep him on their 53 man roster. Assuming he clears waivers, he’ll likely join the practice squad, with fellow 2014 Draft class member and 5th round pick Shaquille Richardson.