Ladarius Green released by Steelers after failed physical and lingering injuries

The Pittsburgh Steelers have released tight end Ladarius Green after he failed a physical. The tight end has battled injuries since signing with the team in 2016.

He told ESPN in March that he expected to be back, despite missing eight games with an ankle injury, the same one that he had surgery on during the offseason in 2015.

Green told reporters during the preseason, “The ankle’s still not 100 percent yet. I’m pushing for it. It’s getting better.”

He also missed the final five games of the season with a concussion, which was alarming since he had similar issues dating back to his time with the Chargers.

In August of 2016, there were reports that Green was having exercise-induced headaches because of concussions he had in the past. They were reportedly severe enough to the point he was contemplating retirement, which he later denied.

“I’m wondering who said this. I’m only 26, so I’m not thinking of retiring anytime soon,” Green said.

Green signed a four-year, $20 million contract in 2016, where the Steelers hoped he would be a replacement for Heath Miller. He had 18 catches for 304 yards and a touchdown in six games last season. He had just one good game, when he went off for six catches, 110 yards, and a touchdown against the Giants in Week 13.

By releasing Green, the Steelers will clear $2.6 million in cap room because of the failed physical designation.

Green will be turning 27 later this month. Another team might be willing to take a chance on him because of his athleticism and promise he’s shown in the past, but only if he gets healthy.