ARLINGTON, Texas -- Even at 7-0, the Steelers aren't wasting any time with new linebacker Avery Williamson.
Despite the fact Williamson wasn't able to practice with team this week after being traded for last Sunday, Williamson was added to the team's 53-man roster on Saturday and could play in the Steelers' game here Sunday against the Cowboys (2-6).
Williamson, 28, was acquired from the Jets last week along with a 2022 seventh-round draft pick for a 2022 fifth-round draft pick. If Williamson plays against the Cowboys, it would be on special teams, something he has done throughout his career.
Because of COVID-19 testing rules, Williamson was unable to practice with the Steelers during the week, but was cleared on Saturday before the team flew to Texas.
In addition to Williamson, the Steelers also activated linebacker Jayrone Elliott from their practice squad to appear in Sunday's game. Teams are permitted to carry 55 players on game days this season, up from 53 in previous years.
Despite that, the Steelers released two players on Saturday, including offensive lineman Stefen Wisniewski.
Wisniewski was signed before the season began after playing with the Chiefs in 2019. He started the regular season opener at right guard in place of injured David DeCastro, but suffered a pectoral injury late in that game and was placed on injured reserve.
The Steelers activated Wisniewski from injured reserve earlier this week, but he was unable to practice because of the injury. The team could still bring the Pittsburgh native back to its active roster at some point, though the Steelers have been happy with the play of rookie Kevin Dotson, as well.
In addition to Wisniewski, the team also released running back Trey Edmunds. Edmunds has been on and off the team's active roster in each of the past three seasons.