Steelers UDFA Gives Up from 53-Man Roster Opportunity to Care for Ill Parents

Pittsburgh, PA – In one of the most emotional turns of this NFL preseason, Pittsburgh Steelers undrafted free agent Max Hurleman has announced that he is stepping away from football to care for his ailing parents, just days before the league’s 53-man roster deadline.

Hurleman, 23, quickly became one of training camp’s surprise stories. Signed as a UDFA earlier this summer, he turned heads with his versatility, lining up at running back, wide receiver, and even contributing on special teams. Reporters described him as a “camp darling,” a player who was forcing coaches to at least consider him as a dark horse candidate for the practice squad or even the final 53.

But on Monday morning, Hurleman released a statement that shocked teammates and fans alike.

"The Steelers gave me a chance to chase a dream I’ve had since I was a kid. But right now, my parents are both battling serious illnesses, and they need me at home. The NFL is a dream, but family is my reality. Thank you to Coach Tomlin, Mr. Khan, and the entire Steelers organization for believing in me. And thank you, Steelers Nation, for showing me love from day one. I hope to be back on the field someday, but for now, I need to be with my family."

According to sources close to the player, Hurleman’s father has been struggling with advanced heart disease, while his mother is undergoing treatment for breast cancer. As the eldest child, Hurleman felt a personal responsibility to return home and support them through their health battles.

Head coach Mike Tomlin praised the young player’s character in his Tuesday press conference. “Max is the kind of young man every coach respects. He worked hard, he impressed people here, and he earned every rep he got. But life is bigger than football. His choice to care for his parents speaks volumes about who he is as a man. We support him 100 percent.”

General manager Omar Khan echoed that sentiment, saying the door will remain open. “If circumstances change and Max is able to return to football in the future, we’d welcome him back. He’s a competitor, but more importantly, he’s a person with strong values. That matters in this organization.”

Hurleman’s rise during camp had captured attention in Pittsburgh media. Known for his effort and adaptability, he logged snaps in multiple positions during joint practices and even saw touches in the preseason finale. While his stat lines were modest, his energy and team-first approach drew praise from beat writers and fans who love to root for underdogs.

Mark Kaboly of The Athletic wrote just last week: “Every year, there’s one UDFA who makes you pause and think, ‘Could he actually sneak onto this roster?’ This year, that guy is Max Hurleman.”

That dream will now be deferred. Hurleman will not be placed on injured reserve or the practice squad; instead, he has been waived with a non-football designation, officially ending his rookie preseason.

As word spread, Steelers fans flooded social media with messages of support. On X, the hashtag #FamilyFirst began trending locally, with fans applauding Hurleman’s courage to prioritize his parents.

One user, @SteelersStrong, wrote: “Respect to Max Hurleman. Walking away from your dream is tough, but being there for your parents is bigger than football. He’ll always have fans in Pittsburgh.”

Another fan group announced plans to send a care package to Hurleman’s hometown in his family’s honor.

For Pittsburgh, Hurleman’s departure does not significantly alter the roster math. The Steelers’ running back room remains anchored by Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren, while special teams depth will come from veterans and other rookies. But the story of Max Hurleman leaves a lasting impression on the locker room.

As Tomlin summarized: “We tell our players all the time—football will always be here, but your family won’t always be. Max understood that. He’s made the right call.”

For Hurleman, the NFL door may not be closed forever. His effort and flashes of talent are now on film, and future opportunities could arise once his family situation stabilizes. But for now, his journey stands as a reminder that even in the high-stakes world of professional football, humanity and family come first.