Steelers LB Anthony Chickillo removed from NFL commissioner's exempt list

Steelers linebacker Anthony Chickillo was removed from the NFL commissioner’s exempt list Thursday, allowing him to return to practice.

Chickillo, 26, was arrested Oct. 20 by state police on accusations he assaulted his girlfriend at Nemacolin Woodlands in Wharton Township. The NFL placed Chickillo on the reserve/commissioner exempt list three days after his arrest.

Charges were withdrawn Wednesday in Fayette County court.

“Anthony Chickillo has been taken off the Exempt/Commissioner’s List by the NFL Office, effective immediately,” Steelers general manager Kevin Colbert said in a statement. “The League will continue to conduct an investigation of the incident, and we acknowledge that Anthony could still be subject to discipline by the League Office under the Personal Conduct Policy.”

Chickillo continued to receive his salary while he was free on $10,000 unsecured bond in the case. By being placed on the exempt list, he was forbidden from practicing or attending games but could attend team meetings and physical therapy at UPMC Rooney Sports Complex.

Chickillo was at the practice facility Thursday morning.

The league’s personal conduct policy states Chickillo could face a six-game suspension without pay as a first offender with “possible upward or downward adjustments based on any aggravating or mitigating factors.”

Chickillo is in his fifth season with the Steelers. In March, he signed a two-year, $8 million contract.

The Steelers released Jay Elliott to clear a roster spot for Chickillo.

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