Castro's departure from the Steelers' practice squad creates an opening at safety, prompting a workout slate to evaluate potential replacements who can contribute on defense and special teams.

Castro remains a development option with Peppers signing, likely staying on the practice squad unless injuries escalate. His trajectory could be aided by Peppers’ addition, but the signing points to stabilization rather than immediate elevation for Castro.

Castro earned a re-sign, preserving a young safety with NFL potential and special-teams value. His continued presence strengthens depth behind the top safeties and signals the coaching staff’s preference for athletic, multi-scheme defenders who can contribute on all three downs and on special teams.

Castro was the standout on defense with active play across 29 snaps, leading the team in tackles. His performance during the game supported the safeties’ solid showing, even as the cornerbacks faltered. If Castro maintains this pace, Pittsburgh could rely on him as a defensive contributor who can handle both run support and coverage duties.

Castro led Pittsburgh with five combined tackles and showed roaming range at defensive back, underscoring his playmaking burst. In a crowded safety room, his coverage appetite and special-teams potential keep him squarely in the roster conversation, with a path to a sub-package or even a situational role if he keeps harrying ball carriers.