Steelers release Ladarius Green 1 year into big-money deal

The Pittsburgh Steelers have released tight end Ladarius Green with a failed physical designation, the team announced Thursday.

Green signed a four-year, $20-million contract last offseason, but was limited to just six appearances during the 2016 season due to an ankle injury and a concussion.

The 26-year-old was expected to be the final piece to a stacked Steelers offense, as well as a replacement for longtime tight end Heath Miller, but finished the year with just 18 catches for 304 yards and one touchdown.

Pittsburgh failed to draft a tight end this year, so Jesse James will presumably continue to be the team's starter. He appeared in all 16 regular-season games, racking up 338 yards on 39 catches and found the end zone four times.

While James is a reliable option, the Steelers are now without a dynamic threat at tight end who can complement the talented wide receiving corps.

Pittsburgh could look to add a veteran through the open market, though there are few options. Gary Barnidge and Jacob Tamme are the only notable names available.