Sunday brought some disappointing news for several former West Virginia football stars. But a pair of them got a bit more of a positive update to their professional careers on Monday.
As the final 53-man regular season rosters were finalized across the NFL this weekend, a number of players representing the old-gold-and-blue in the league were waived by their franchises, leaving significant doubt about what will come next in their professional careers. But at least two of those former WVU stars will be returning to the practie squad for those teams.
Garrett Greene, Doug Nester get happy news on NFL future
Former West Virginia quarterback Garrrett Greene, who currently is starring as a wide receiver in the league, was waived by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday. And former West Virginia offensive lineman Doug Nester suffered the same fate with the Pittsburgh Steelers. But now, both will get the opportunity continue with their organizations as practice squad members.
Second-year receiver/returner Garrett Greene, the former West Virginia quarterback, is returning to the Bucs' practice squad after being cut Sunday. Now up to 10 PS signings known.
— Greg Auman (@gregauman) August 31, 2026
The Pittsburgh Steelers just signed my client Doug Nester (OL, West Virginia) to the practice squad. Has been developing there the last 2 years and just finished up an excellent preseason.
— Brett Tessler (@TesslerSports) August 31, 2026
Greene will be on the practice squad for the second consecutive season with the Buccaneers. He found himself in a similar position last year after impressing coaches following a transition from quarterback to wideout, and had another strong preseason effort this year.
Nester is also not new to Pittsburgh's practice squad, spending the past two seasons with the Steelers in a similar role. Now, he enters his third season in the NFL after his agent reports he had an "excellent preseason."
While it's unfortunate neither could make it to their team's final regular season roster, it's heartwarming to see two former Mountaineers get to continue to chase their dream on the biggest stage of professional football, even on the practice squad.
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