Why haven't Steelers made most obvious cut of offseason?

The Steelers have already made a few releases to begin the offseason, and thanks to the NFL raising the salary cap by an unprecedented $30 million, they now have $8.9M in cap space. 

However, if Pittsburgh wants to be able to do more than just sign its 2024 rookie class, it will need to make some more moves, which raises the question of why the team hasn't made the most obvious cut of the offseason yet.

If the Steelers were to release veteran wide receiver Allen Robinson II, they would save $10M in cap space, more than doubling their current situation.

Robinson II joined Pittsburgh last offseason after a failed one-year run with the Rams. The 30-year-old was even worse in 2023, however, posting 34 catches for 280 yards and zero touchdowns.

Parting ways with him feels like a no-brainer, especially with wide receivers Diontae Johnson, George Pickens and Calvin Austin III still under contract in 2024.

Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo believes there is a good reason the team hasn't cut Robinson II quite yet.

"They might be trying to come to terms with him on a new deal for much less money," Fittipaldo said during his weekly Q&A chat. "That's the only reason he hasn't been cut yet."

Even if that is the case, it is surprising that Pittsburgh is interested in bringing back Robinson II. His production on the field was very underwhelming in his 10th season in the league.

However, the veteran is the oldest player in the wide receiver room and the Steelers might want to keep him around for his leadership. 

Robinson II was a 1,000-yard receiver three times in his career, and although that last occurred in 2020, he could continue to help develop the team's young and talented players.

Still, it feels like there will be better options at a similar price in free agency and the 2024 NFL Draft, but Pittsburgh must determine what it's looking for from its No. 4 or 5 wide receiver next season.