PITTSBURGH (AP) — The Pittsburgh Steelers will release veteran linebacker James Farrior and defensive end Aaron Smith, the latest in a series of roster moves meant to address the team’s salary cap issues and aging defense.
Team president Art Rooney II announced Friday the team will cut Farrior and Smith before the league’s new calendar year begins March 13. The Steelers announced earlier this week they also will release wide receiver Hines Ward.
Farrior and Smith served as the backbone of a defense that led the team to two Super Bowl victories and three AFC titles over the last decade. The 37-year-old Farrior, a two-time Pro Bowl selection, had 78 tackles in 14 games last season.
Smith, who turns 36 next month, had 44 sacks during his 13-year career but struggled to stay healthy over the last few seasons.
