Steelers Sign Veteran Cornerback Brandin Echols from Jets

PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Steelers continued their roster overhaul by signing cornerback Brandin Echols to a two-year contract. The 27-year-old defensive back joined the Steelers after a four-year stint with the New York Jets, further solidifying the team’s secondary as they head into the 2025 NFL season.

Echols was drafted in the sixth round of the 2021 NFL Draft from the University of Kentucky. Standing at 5 feet 10 inches and weighing 179 pounds, he has made a mark as a versatile player capable of performing well both as an outside cornerback and in the slot.

During his time with the Jets, Echols appeared in 59 games, starting 19, and made five career interceptions, with two of those coming last season. He also recorded 16 pass defenses and totaled 122 tackles, showcasing his aggressive playing style. In 2024, Echols played 407 defensive snaps while allowing 24 completions on 40 pass attempts and posting a passer rating of 90.0 against him.

“Brandin brings critical depth to our defensive backfield and provides competition for our young players,” said Steelers general manager Omar Khan. “His ability to play multiple positions will be an asset for us both in defense and on special teams.”

Last season, Echols notably stepped up for the Jets when starters Sauce Gardner and D.J. Reed were sidelined due to injury, proving his adaptability and reliability. He contributed with 40 total tackles, combining solo and assisted efforts, and also made a significant impact on special teams, participating in punt, kick, and field goal block units.

In addition to his impressive statistics, Echols showcased his athleticism at his pro day, clocking in a 4.36-second 40-yard dash along with a 41.5-inch vertical jump, giving him a noticeable edge in coverage scenarios.

The Steelers, eager to enhance their defense for the upcoming season, have made several moves during the NFL’s legal tampering period, including bringing in notable players like Darius Slay. Echols’ signing is seen as a strategic decision aimed at strengthening the team’s secondary amidst a competitive free agency landscape.

“I’m excited for this new opportunity in Pittsburgh and look forward to contributing to the Steelers’ defense,” Echols said in a statement. “I’m ready to work hard and help the team compete at a high level.”

This addition not only bolsters the depth chart behind established starters but also adds versatility to a secondary that is expected to face a variety of offensive schemes throughout the regular season.