Steelers Rookie Linebacker Prioritizes NFL Career, Ends Relationship with OnlyFans Model Amid Busy Season

Pittsburgh, PA – In a move that underscores the intense focus required to thrive in the NFL, a promising Pittsburgh Steelers rookie has reportedly parted ways with his girlfriend, an OnlyFans model, to eliminate distractions and channel all energy into his burgeoning professional football career. The decision, made public this week, highlights the sacrifices young athletes often make as they navigate the high-stakes world of the league.

The Steelers’ 2025 draft class has been a focal point for fans and analysts alike, with several rookies earning praise for their early contributions. As the team pushes toward a strong finish in the regular season, stories like this one remind observers of the personal toll that comes with chasing gridiron glory. For this undrafted gem turned key contributor, the choice to streamline his life off the field appears to be a calculated step toward long-term success in the black and gold.

The rookie in question is Carson Bruener, the seventh-round selection out of the University of Washington who has quickly become a special teams standout for Pittsburgh. Bruener, selected 226th overall in April’s NFL Draft, has logged three special teams tackles through the first four games of the 2025 season, ranking fourth on the team in that category. His relentless work ethic and football IQ have drawn high praise from coaches, with inside linebackers coach Scott McCurley noting, “He’s been impressive,” during a recent press conference. Bruener’s debut came in Week 1’s thrilling 34-32 victory over the New York Jets, marking the start of what could be a multi-year role in Pittsburgh’s disciplined defensive scheme.

Sources close to the situation indicate that the relationship, which had been ongoing since Bruener’s college days, began to strain under the pressures of his transition to the pros. The model, known for her content on the subscription-based platform, reportedly supported Bruener through his draft process but found the demands of his schedule—intense practices, film study, and travel—challenging to balance with her own commitments. “It was mutual and amicable,” an insider told Steelers Nation, emphasizing that the split was driven by a shared understanding of Bruener’s need to stay laser-focused. “He’s all-in on football right now, and this clears the deck for him to compete without any outside noise.”

This isn’t the first time a young NFL player’s personal life has intersected with his career trajectory. From high-profile breakups to social media controversies, rookies often face scrutiny that can test their resolve. For Bruener, however, the timing couldn’t be better. With injuries sidelining veterans like Malik Harrison early in the season, opportunities for defensive snaps could arise soon. Bruener’s college pedigree—over 300 career tackles, including a 2024 campaign with 105 stops, three interceptions, and First-Team All-Big Ten honors—positions him as a potential depth piece behind stars like Patrick Queen and Elandon Roberts.

The Steelers’ special teams unit, under coordinator Danny Smith, has been one of the league’s most reliable this year, and Bruener’s integration has been seamless. Drawing from a family legacy—his father, Mark Bruener, was a longtime Steelers tight end and current team scout—the rookie embodies the grit that defines Pittsburgh’s identity. “Special teams is something I embrace and really fell in love with,” Bruener said earlier this season, echoing his passion for the phase of the game that often decides close contests.

As the Steelers gear up for their Week 6 matchup against a divisional rival, Bruener’s story serves as an inspiring narrative amid the grind. NFL rookies like him, balancing fame’s temptations with football’s rigors, often credit such personal resets for fueling their rise. Whether this leads to more snaps, a starting role, or simply roster security, one thing is clear: Carson Bruener is betting on himself—and the Steel City faithful are along for the ride.