The Fate of Two Steelers Legends: Shock Move to UFL – Where Are They Heading?

A pair of former Pittsburgh Steelers players have joined the United Football League (UFL) as the league prepares for its spring season later this year. Running back Kalen Ballage has signed with the Arlington Renegades, while linebacker Tae Crowder will play for the Birmingham Stallions, according to the league’s transaction sheet.

Ballage’s stint with the Steelers was brief, having signed as a free agent ahead of the 2021 season. While he appeared in all 17 games that year, his playing time was limited. Ballage logged just 65 offensive snaps and 12 carries, filling a reserve role behind rookie Najee Harris. His performance was underwhelming, with only 3.0 yards per carry and a 41.7 percent run success rate. Most of his contributions came on special teams, where he recorded one tackle over nearly 100 snaps.

Pittsburgh remains Ballage’s last NFL regular season appearance, as he was unable to secure a spot with any team in 2022 despite a workout with the Indianapolis Colts.

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The running back spent the 2023 season with the San Antonio Brahmas, where he rushed 55 times for 149 yards, averaging a dismal 2.7 yards per carry. He was released by the Brahmas ahead of the 2024 season. At 30 years old, Ballage’s chances are dwindling, but a strong performance with the Renegades could help him make a case for an NFL comeback later this year.

Crowder’s time with the Steelers was even shorter, as he never saw action in a regular season game. The Steelers signed him in late 2022 due to injuries, including one to Marcus Allen, but he did not dress for any games. He was released the following May when Pittsburgh added rookie linebacker Toby Ndukwe to the roster. Crowder spent brief stints with the Indianapolis Colts and Tennessee Titans in 2023, but failed to sign with any team in 2024. Set to turn 28 in March, Crowder was drafted by the New York Giants as the last overall pick in the 2020 draft. He made 31 starts for the Giants from 2020 to 2022 and will look to prove himself in the UFL this spring in hopes of earning another opportunity in the NFL.

The UFL regular season is set to begin on March 28.