Steelers release Leftwich to free up roster spot for defensive lineman

Published November 20, 2014

The Pittsburgh Steelers have released quarterback Byron Leftwich so they can dress an additional defensive lineman for Sunday's game at Tennessee.

Leftwich is expected to return to the 53-man roster on Monday. He already is guaranteed his full salary this season.

Leftwich, mending from a left knee injury, was not expected to play against Tennessee. The Steelers will go with Dennis Dixon and Charlie Batch at quarterback, as they did in their opener, a 15-9 overtime win over Atlanta.

With nose tackle Casey Hampton (hamstring) injured, the Steelers were down to two backup defensive lineman. Leftwich's roster spot will be taken by Steve McLendon, a first-year player from Troy State.

Leftwich was expected to start during Ben Roethlisberger's suspension, but he injured his knee on Sept. 2.

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