The Pittsburgh Steelers have made some roster moves, signing receiver Aron Cruickshank and linebacker Kuony Deng. In order to make room for these new additions, the team has waived/injured receivers Hakeem Butler and Cody White.
Cruickshank, who signed with the Chicago Bears as an undrafted free agent after the 2023 NFL Draft, brings a versatile skill set to the Steelers. The former Rutgers University player recorded 99 receptions for 868 yards and five touchdowns in 28 games. In 2022, he had 42 receptions for 385 yards and two touchdowns, earning him All-Big Ten third team honors. Cruickshank was also recognized as a third team All-Big Ten return specialist. Prior to his time at Rutgers, he played two seasons at Wisconsin.
Deng, on the other hand, was originally signed by the Atlanta Falcons as an undrafted free agent following the 2022 NFL Draft. He later joined the Chicago Bears practice squad in the 2022 season and signed a Reserve/Future contract after the season. Unfortunately, he was released by the Bears during the preseason.
During his college career at the University of California, Deng showcased his defensive prowess. He recorded 154 total tackles, 10 tackles for a loss, three and a half sacks, eight passes defensed, two forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery. Deng’s leadership qualities were evident as he served as a team captain for two seasons (2020-2021). In 2019, he was named honorable mention All-Pac-12 after recording 119 tackles and three sacks. Overall, Deng accumulated 229 tackles and 15.5 tackles for a loss during his time at California, as well as Independence Community College and Virginia Military Institute.
The Steelers are hopeful that the addition of Cruickshank and Deng will bolster their roster and contribute to their success in the upcoming season. With their unique skill sets and college experience, both players have the potential to make an impact on the field.
What qualities did Kuony Deng possess as a college player that make the Pittsburgh Steelers hopeful for his potential impact on the field
The Pittsburgh Steelers have bolstered their roster with some exciting new signings. They recently added receiver Aron Cruickshank and linebacker Kuony Deng to their team. To make room for these new additions, the Steelers have waived/injured receivers Hakeem Butler and Cody White.
Cruickshank brings a versatile skill set to the Steelers, having signed with the Chicago Bears as an undrafted free agent after the 2023 NFL Draft. He had an impressive college career at Rutgers University, recording 99 receptions for 868 yards and five touchdowns in 28 games. In 2022, he earned All-Big Ten third team honors with 42 receptions for 385 yards and two touchdowns. Cruickshank was also recognized as a third team All-Big Ten return specialist. Before Rutgers, he played two seasons at Wisconsin.
Deng, on the other hand, was initially signed by the Atlanta Falcons as an undrafted free agent following the 2022 NFL Draft. He later joined the Chicago Bears practice squad in the 2022 season and signed a Reserve/Future contract. Unfortunately, he was released by the Bears during the preseason.
Deng was a defensive force during his college career at the University of California. He recorded impressive stats, including 154 total tackles, 10 tackles for a loss, three and a half sacks, eight passes defensed, two forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery. Deng’s leadership qualities were evident as he served as a team captain for two seasons. In 2019, he was named honorable mention All-Pac-12 after recording 119 tackles and three sacks. Overall, Deng accumulated 229 tackles and 15.5 tackles for a loss during his time at California, as well as Independence Community College and Virginia Military Institute.
The Steelers are hoping that Cruickshank and Deng will make a significant impact on the field. With their unique skill sets and college experience, both players have the potential to contribute to the team’s success in the upcoming season.
Excited to see what Aron Cruickshank and Kuony Deng can bring to the Steelers!