The offseason is officially underway, and that means some changes to the Steelers roster.
It also means some things remaining the same.
Greg Warren was set to become an unrestricted free agent when the NFL league year begins on March 9, but he avoided that by signing a one-year deal on Feb. 2.
"First off, I certainly appreciate the Steelers wanting me back," said Warren. "And second, I appreciate them taking the uncertainty out of where I stand with the team in the future and letting me know I am in the plans for next season. Coach (Mike Tomlin) said he appreciates what I have done, was happy with the performance and would like to continue the relationship. That's all I need to hear in order for me to know they appreciate what I do and I want to come back.
"This is home. It's the only place I want to play. When my time comes for me to retire like players before me, I am grateful for the time I have had and it will end here. With that being said, I hope it doesn't end any time soon and I continue to play for this wonderful organization for a while."
The team also released Justin Gilbert, who they acquired via trade from the Cleveland Browns on Sept. 3. Gilbert played in 12 regular season games, finishing with one tackle, and two postseason games.
Players who were on a practice squad or not with a team at the end of the 2016 season were eligible to be signed to a reserve/future contract. The Steelers quickly signed 10 players who were on their practice squad in 2016 to reserve/future contracts, in addition to adding some new faces to the mix.
Here is a rundown of everyone who was signed after the season to a reserve/future contract:
Cornerback Brandon Dixon: Was on the Steelers practice squad in 2016.
Linebacker Greg Ducre: Spent time with the San Diego Chargers and Washington Redskins on practice squad and active roster in 2014 and 2015. Also spent time with the BC Lions in the Canadian Football League.
Running back Brandon Brown-Dukes: Was on the Steelers practice squad in 2016.
Offensive lineman Matt Feiler: Was on the Steelers practice squad in 2016.
Safety Jacob Hagen: Was on the Steelers practice squad in 2016.
Cornerback Mike Hilton: Was on the Steelers practice squad in 2016.
Linebacker Farrington Huguenin: Signed with the Miami Dolphins as an undrafted free agent in 2016, but was waived/injured before the start of the season.
Running back Gus Johnson: Was on the Steelers practice squad in 2016.
Offensive lineman Keavon Milton: Was on the Steelers practice squad in 2016.
Running back Dreamius Smith: Was on the Steelers practice squad in 2016.
Wide receiver Dez Stewart: Was on the Green Bay Packers practice squad in 2016.
Wide receiver Marcus Tucker: Was on the Steelers practice squad in 2016.
Running back Karlos Williams: Was on the Steelers practice squad in 2016.
