Max Hurleman Steelers Waived: Versatile Receiver’s NFL Journey Continues After Final Roster Cuts

The Pittsburgh Steelers’ decision to waive Max Hurleman during the team’s final roster reductions ahead of the 2026 NFL season has drawn attention from fans following the young player’s unconventional path toward establishing himself in professional football.

Hurleman, who spent the previous season developing on Pittsburgh’s practice squad, entered the 2026 offseason competing for a place on the team’s 53-man roster. His preseason performances provided him with an opportunity to showcase his abilities as a receiver while highlighting the versatility that has defined his football career.

However, when the Steelers finalized their initial roster on August 30, 2026, Hurleman was among the players waived as the organization made difficult decisions to reach the NFL’s regular-season roster limit.

While the move represents a setback, it does not necessarily signal the end of Hurleman’s professional football aspirations. Because he was waived rather than released as a veteran with guaranteed roster protections, other NFL teams have the opportunity to claim him. If he clears waivers, he could potentially return to Pittsburgh or join another organization through a practice-squad opportunity.

What Happened to Max Hurleman?

Max Hurleman was waived by the Pittsburgh Steelers as part of the team’s final roster-cut process.

Like many players competing for limited NFL roster positions, Hurleman faced significant competition during training camp and preseason. Teams must evaluate numerous factors, including performance, positional needs, special-teams contributions, and long-term potential when reducing their rosters.

The Steelers ultimately selected other players for their initial 53-man roster, leaving Hurleman searching for his next opportunity.

Who Is Max Hurleman?

Max Hurleman is a versatile football player whose career has included experience at running back, wide receiver, defensive back, and special teams.

His ability to contribute in multiple areas became one of the defining features of his football background.

Hurleman began his college career at Colgate University, where he played primarily on offense and contributed as a return specialist. During his time there, he developed into a dependable player capable of filling different roles.

For his final collegiate season, Hurleman transferred to Notre Dame, where his responsibilities changed significantly. He transitioned to defensive back while continuing to contribute on special teams.

That experience gave him exposure to multiple areas of the game before entering professional football.

Max Hurleman’s College Football Career

During his college career, Hurleman appeared in 51 games across five seasons and recorded 23 starts.

At Colgate, he accumulated 194 rushing attempts for 814 yards and one touchdown. He also contributed as a punt returner, recording 49 punt returns for 353 yards.

His statistical production reflected his ability to provide value beyond a single position.

Rather than being defined by one specific role, Hurleman developed a reputation as a flexible player who could adjust to different responsibilities depending on team needs.

Transition to Notre Dame

Hurleman’s football journey took another turn when he transferred to Notre Dame in 2024.

Instead of continuing solely as an offensive player, he moved into a defensive role as a cornerback while continuing his contributions on special teams.

The transition demonstrated his willingness to adapt and take on new challenges.

Although he was not selected in the NFL Draft, Hurleman continued pursuing an opportunity to compete at the professional level.

How Did Max Hurleman Join the Steelers?

Hurleman’s opportunity with Pittsburgh began through a rookie minicamp tryout.

The Steelers invited him to participate in their 2025 rookie minicamp, giving him the chance to compete without the advantage of being a draft selection or traditional high-profile signing.

His performance impressed the organization, leading the Steelers to sign him.

The opportunity represented a significant achievement for a player who had taken a less conventional route toward reaching the NFL.

Time on the Steelers Practice Squad

Hurleman spent the 2025 NFL season on Pittsburgh’s practice squad rather than appearing in a regular-season game.

The experience allowed him to develop within the Steelers’ system, practice against NFL-level competition, and continue improving his skills.

Following the season, Pittsburgh signed him to a reserve/future contract, providing another opportunity to compete during the 2026 offseason.

Strong 2026 Preseason Performances

During the 2026 preseason, Hurleman provided several encouraging performances.

Against the Green Bay Packers, he recorded three receptions for 46 yards.

He later added another reception against the New York Jets before finishing the preseason with a strong showing against the Buffalo Bills, catching three passes for 50 yards.

Across three preseason games, Hurleman totaled seven receptions for 99 receiving yards.

Those performances helped him remain in consideration as the Steelers evaluated their final roster decisions.

Why Did the Steelers Waive Max Hurleman?

The Steelers have not indicated that Hurleman’s waiver was related to injury, disciplinary concerns, or any other issue beyond normal roster construction.

NFL teams face difficult decisions every year when reducing their offseason rosters to the required 53-player limit.

Hurleman competed for opportunities among a group of receivers and special-teams contributors.

The emergence of rookie receiver and return specialist Kaden Wetjen also influenced Pittsburgh’s final roster decisions.

Although Hurleman’s versatility remained valuable, the team ultimately had limited available roster spots.

What Position Does Max Hurleman Play?

Hurleman’s football background makes his position difficult to define.

During his career, he has played running back, wide receiver, defensive back, and contributed on special teams.

With Pittsburgh, he primarily competed as a wide receiver while maintaining the ability to contribute as a return specialist.

His willingness to perform wherever needed has remained one of his strongest qualities.

What Happens Next for Max Hurleman?

Following his waiver from Pittsburgh, Hurleman’s next step depends on the NFL waiver process and potential interest from other teams.

Another organization could claim him, or he could become eligible for a practice-squad opportunity if he clears waivers.

The Steelers could also remain a possibility depending on their roster needs and future moves.

His preseason production and ability to contribute in multiple roles may continue to attract attention from teams seeking flexible depth options.

Max Hurleman’s NFL Path Remains Open

Hurleman’s football journey has never followed a traditional path.

He moved from Colgate to Notre Dame, transitioned between positions, went undrafted, earned a chance through a tryout, joined the Steelers, developed on the practice squad, and competed for an NFL roster position.

Being waived during final cuts represents another challenge in that journey, but it does not necessarily end his professional career.

His versatility, determination, and willingness to adapt remain qualities that could provide future opportunities.

Closing

Max Hurleman’s waiver from the Pittsburgh Steelers has created uncertainty, but his career continues to reflect perseverance and adaptability.

From his college career to his NFL pursuit, Hurleman has consistently demonstrated the ability to adjust and contribute in different situations.

As NFL teams finalize their rosters and practice squads, his next opportunity may emerge.

Disclaimer: This article is based on information available regarding Max Hurleman’s roster status with the Pittsburgh Steelers at the time of publication. NFL transactions, waiver claims, practice-squad assignments, and player statuses can change quickly. Readers should confirm the latest roster updates through official team announcements and verified sources.