Pittsburgh Steelers Release Safety Rayshawn Jenkins
The veteran safety is off the roster following a brief tenure with the team.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Football
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The Pittsburgh Steelers have officially released safety Rayshawn Jenkins. Jenkins joined the organization in August 2026 and appeared in six games this season.
Why it matters
The move marks a departure for the veteran defensive back who previously spent time with the Cleveland Browns and the Los Angeles Chargers. The team is currently preparing for its upcoming international contest in France.
Jenkins departs Pittsburgh with 15 tackles in six games played this season. Across his career, the veteran safety has accumulated 523 total tackles and 11 interceptions over 145 games.
The players
Rayshawn Jenkins
He is an NFL safety who was originally selected in the 2017 draft and has played for teams including the Chargers, Browns, and Steelers.
Pittsburgh Steelers
This professional football organization is based in Pittsburgh and competes in the AFC North division of the NFL.
New Orleans Saints
This professional football organization is a member of the NFC South and will face the Steelers in an upcoming international game.
The details
Jenkins earned one start during his time with the Steelers this season after signing with the organization in August. He previously played 17 games for the Cleveland Browns during the 2025 season before joining the current roster.
Timeline
Rayshawn Jenkins was selected in the 2017 NFL Draft.
Jenkins signed a contract with the Steelers in August 2026.
The Steelers released Rayshawn Jenkins on October 21, 2026.
The Steelers are scheduled to play the New Orleans Saints in Paris on October 25, 2026.
Season Trajectory
The roster move reshapes the secondary depth chart as the Steelers aim to stabilize their defense for the remainder of the season. This transaction impacts the team's defensive rotation immediately ahead of their international matchup in Paris.
The release removes Jenkins from the active roster, meaning he will not be available for the upcoming game against the New Orleans Saints. Fantasy managers and fans should adjust expectations for the Pittsburgh secondary rotation following this shift in the depth chart.
The takeaway
Roster fluidity is a common reality during the NFL season as teams refine their personnel for specific matchups. Maintaining depth remains a priority for organizations as they prepare for both domestic and international competition.
What happens next
The Pittsburgh Steelers will play the New Orleans Saints in Paris on October 25, 2026.
Further reading
For more updates on team personnel moves, visit the Pittsburgh Football section.
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