The Steelers made an early splash in free agency, bolstering both sides of the ball with the addition of five new players.
The team acquired receiver DK Metcalf via a trade with the Seattle Seahawks and then signed him to a new contract. The team also signed cornerback Brandin Echols, running back Kenneth Gainwell, linebacker Malik Harrison and cornerback Darius Slay.
Learn more about the new additions to the Steelers roster, who all arrived in Pittsburgh on Thursday.
Take a look at the newest additions to the Steelers' roster
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf signs a contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell speaks at a press conference about his contract signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Darius Slay, head coach Mike Tomlin, and wide receiver DK Metcalf pose for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Brandin Echols signs a contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Darius Slay poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Malik Harrison signs a contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Darius Slay poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Brandin Echols speaks at a press conference about his contract signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell signs a contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Malik Harrison poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Darius Slay poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Brandin Echols poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf signs a contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Malik Harrison speaks at a press conference about his contract signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Darius Slay signs a contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Malik Harrison signs a contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Darius Slay poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Brandin Echols poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell speaks at a press conference about his contract signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Malik Harrison poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Brandin Echols signs a contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Malik Harrison poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf speaks at a press conference about his contract signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Malik Harrison poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Malik Harrison poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Malik Harrison poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Malik Harrison speaks at a press conference about his contract signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf signs a contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell signs a contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell speaks at a press conference about his contract signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Malik Harrison signs a contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf speaks at a press conference about his contract signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf speaks at a press conference about his contract signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Darius Slay poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Brandin Echols poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Darius Slay speaks at a press conference about his contract signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Darius Slay signs a contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Malik Harrison poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Darius Slay speaks at a press conference about his contract signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Darius Slay signs a contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Brandin Echols speaks at a press conference about his contract signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Malik Harrison poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Darius Slay poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Malik Harrison speaks at a press conference about his contract signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Darius Slay poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Brandin Echols poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Malik Harrison poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Darius Slay poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Malik Harrison poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Brandin Echols poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Darius Slay poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Malik Harrison poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Darius Slay poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Brandin Echols poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Darius Slay poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Malik Harrison poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Malik Harrison poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Darius Slay poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Brandin Echols poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Darius Slay poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Brandin Echols poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Malik Harrison poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Darius Slay poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Darius Slay poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Darius Slay, head coach Mike Tomlin, and wide receiver DK Metcalf pose for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Brandin Echols poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Brandin Echols poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Brandin Echols poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Brandin Echols poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Brandin Echols poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Darius Slay poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Brandin Echols poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Brandin Echols poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf poses for a photo, Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Cornerback Brandin Echols:
The Steelers signed cornerback Brandin Echols to a two-year contract.
Echols was drafted by the New York Jets in the sixth round of the 2021 NFL Draft and has spent the last four seasons in New York.
He has appeared in 57 games, starting 19 of them. He has 113 career tackles, 88 of them solo stops, three tackles for a loss, five interceptions, including two returned for a touchdown, one fumble recovery and 16 passes defensed.
"I bring grit, I am hungry, I am ready to play," said Echols. "I have a chip on my shoulder that I feel like I need to show the world who I really am. I feel like Pittsburgh is the perfect place to do that.
"I have always had that chip. I feel like I have always been underappreciated. Back in my younger days people didn't look at me as one of the top athletes. Wanting to be included in that conversation is what gives me the chip.
"The grit comes from my DNA. It's who I am. It's in me to go out there and be the best that I can be."
In 2024, he appeared in 16 games, starting four of them. He finished the season with 36 tackles, 28 of them solo stops, two interceptions, three passes defensed, a fumble recovery and four special teams tackles. He had a career-high 10 tackles against the Miami Dolphins in Week 14, along with a pass defense.
"Speed, play-making ability, tackling when needed,' said Echols of what he can bring to the defense. "I can bring it all. I am just ready to ball."
Echols played in 14 games in 2023, starting one, while recording nine tackles, six of them solo stops, and a 30-yard interception return for a touchdown against the Miami Dolphins in Week 12.
In 2022 he appeared in 13 games, registering five tackles, two passes defensed and three special teams tackles.
And special teams is something he loves.
"I take pride in special teams," said Echols. "That's what got me here."
His rookie season he started 14 games, missing three while on the Reserve/Injured List. He finished the season with 63 tackles, 50 of them solo stops, two tackles for a loss, two interceptions, including one he returned 20 yards for a touchdown, and nine passes defensed. He was tied for sixth-most passes defensed among rookies, and the only rookie with nine plus passes defensed not selected in the first or second round. Echols was voted the Pepsi Zero Sugar Rookie of the Week against the Miami Dolphins when he returned the interception 20 yards for a touchdown, only the second defensive touchdown by a Jets rookie since 2000.
Echols played college football at Kentucky where he played in 24 games, with 22 straight starts. He finished with 108 tackles, four and a half tackles for a loss, 11 passes broken up, two forced fumbles and an interception.
Related:
-->> More on Brandon Echols
-->> How Echols Fits
Steelers signed free agent cornerback Brandin Echols
New York Jets' Brandin Echols, right, defends Cincinnati Bengals' Ja'Marr Chase during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 31, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Noah K. Murray)
New York Jets cornerback Brandin Echols (26)defends during an NFL football game against the New England Patriots Thursday, Sept. 19, 2024, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Jets' Brandin Echols in action during an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Dec. 12, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
New York Jets cornerback Brandin Echols (26) reacts during warm-ups prior to an NFL football game against the New England Patriots on Sunday, Oct. 27, 2024, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Greg M. Cooper)
Miami Dolphins wide receiver Albert Wilson (2) is unable to catch a pass as New York Jets cornerback Brandin Echols (26) defends during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 19, 2021, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)
New York Jets cornerback Brandin Echols (26) breaks up a pass intended for Green Bay Packers wide receiver Allen Lazard during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 16, 2022, in Green Bay, Wis. (AP Photo/Matt Ludtke)
New York Jets' Brandin Echols, center, celebrates his interception during the first half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday, Jan. 2, 2022, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/John Munson)
New York Jets cornerback Brandin Echols (26) reacts against the Cincinnati Bengals during an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 31, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Jets cornerback Brandin Echols (25) in action against the New York Giants during a preseason NFL football game, Saturday, Aug. 14, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Jets' Brandin Echols in action during an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Dec. 12, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
Running Back Kenneth Gainwell:
The Steelers signed running back Kenneth Gainwell to a one-year contract.
Gainwell was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft, the 150th overall pick, and spent the last four seasons with the Eagles.
He has appeared in 66 games, including four starts, and carried the ball 280 times for 1,185 yards, a 4.2-yard average, and 12 touchdowns. Gainwell also has 102 receptions for 721 yards, a 7.1-yard average, and one touchdown. He also has 27 kickoff returns for 612 yards, a 22.7-yard average.
"I love the toughness of this team, the toughness of this brand of football," said Gainwell. "And really, just Coach Mike Tomlin, I grew up watching the Steelers every Sunday, seeing the Steelers on TV and that just really drew my interest.
"My brother (Kory) was a big-time fan of the Steelers. That just drew the line and got me watching the team.
"And seeing what Coach Tomlin does with the running backs, for me to come in and implement my game and be the best version of myself."
The Steelers faced Gainwell in a Week 15 matchup against the Eagles in 2024, when he rushed for 20 yards on seven carries, and had three receptions for 40 yards. He also had 63 kickoff return yards, for a total of 123 all-purpose yards in the game.
"I bring a different game," said Gainwell of his style of play. "I can run any route out of the backfield, I can do anything out of the slot, protection, run game. Pass protection is big here and that is something I bring and can be high on."
Gainwell played in all 17 games in 2024, starting one, while carrying the ball 75 times for 290 yards, a 3.9-yard average, and one touchdown. He also had 16 receptions for 116 yards, a 7.3-yard average as he helped the Eagles on special teams as well during their Super Bowl LIX season as he returned 18 kickoffs for a career-high 456 yards, a 25.3-yard average.
In 2023, he played in 16 games, with two starts, and finished the season with 84 carries for a career-high 364 yards, a 4.3-yard average, and two touchdowns. He added 30 receptions for 183 yards, a 6.1-yard average.
During the 2022 regular season he appeared in all 17 games, carrying the ball 53 times for 240 yards and four touchdowns, while adding 23 receptions for 169 yards, a 7.3-yard average. In the postseason, Gainwell led the Eagles with 33 carries for 181 yards, a 5.5-yard average, and a career-long 35-yard touchdown. He also had seven receptions for 55 yards, a 7.9-yard average, and his 236 yards from scrimmage also led the Eagles.
In 2021, he tied for the most rushing touchdowns in franchise history for a rookie with five. He finished the season with 68 rushing attempts for 291 yards, a 4.3-yard average, and 33 receptions for 253 yards, a 7.7-yard average, and one touchdown for a total of six touchdowns for the season.
Gainwell played college football at Memphis where he was a teammate of Steelers receiver Calvin Austin III. He played in 18 games at Memphis, starting 14, and had 2,212 yards from scrimmage, including 1,550 rushing yards and 662 receiving yards, with 17 touchdowns. He helped to lead Memphis to an AAC Championship in 2019 when he had an FBS-leading 2,069 all-purpose yards and 1,459 rushing yards, which ranked 12th nationally. He became the third player in Memphis history to register 2,000 plus all-purpose yards. He opted out of his final college season in 2020 after four relatives passed away due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Related:
-->> More on Kenneth Gainwell
-->> How Gainwell Fits
Steelers signed free agent running back Kenneth Gainwell
Philadelphia Eagles running back Kenneth Gainwell (14) celebrates during the NFC Championship NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday, Jan. 26, 2025, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Daniel Kucin Jr.)
Philadelphia Eagles' Kenneth Gainwell in action during an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 1, 2023, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
Philadelphia Eagles running back Kenneth Gainwell (14) in action against the Dallas Cowboys during an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Rich Schultz)
Philadelphia Eagles running back Kenneth Gainwell (14) walks on the sidelines during the second half of a NFL preseason football game against the Miami Dolphins, Saturday, Aug. 27, 2022, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)
Philadelphia Eagles running back Kenneth Gainwell (14) is tackled by Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Nick Bolton (32) during the first half of the NFL Super Bowl 59 football game, Sunday, Feb. 9, 2025, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough)
Philadelphia Eagles running back Kenneth Gainwell (14) runs the ball against the Detroit Lions during an NFL football game in Detroit, Sunday, Oct. 31, 2021. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts celebrates a touchdown run by Kenneth Gainwell during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Nov. 27, 2022, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)
Philadelphia Eagles' Kenneth Gainwell in action during an NFL divisional round playoff football game, Saturday, Jan. 21, 2023, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
Philadelphia Eagles running back Kenneth Gainwell goes over the top of Washington Commanders safety Quan Martin during the first half of the NFC Championship NFL football game, Sunday, Jan. 26, 2025, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)
Philadelphia Eagles running back Kenneth Gainwell in action during a preseason NFL football game against the New England Patriots Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
Linebacker Malik Harrison:
The Steelers signed linebacker Malik Harrison to a two-year contract.
Harrison was originally drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft, the 98th overall pick and has spent the last five seasons with the Ravens.
Harrison has appeared in 76 career games, with 35 starts. He has 144 career tackles, 78 of them solo stops, and seven tackles for a loss. He also has two sacks, four quarterback hits, and one pass defensed. He also has 30 special teams tackles, including 17 solo stops.
"It's my presence and how aggressive I am, and my versatility," said Harrison of how he fits with the Steelers defense. "I can play inside, outside. I can do it all, special teams, I'm all over the place. So that's what I think I can bring.
"Special teams, I will do anything to make this team win. Special teams is a core to this game, and I feel like it's important. You've got one play, and you've got to make that one play count."
Harrison plays with an edge, an aggressive approach that will have him fit right in with the defense.
"I think that's just always been how I played throughout college and in high school," said Harrison. "I've always just been the guy that's very aggressive, I don't shy away from contact. I feed off of contact. If somebody gets me, I'm going to have to get you back."
In 2024, he played in 15 games, with seven starts, and had a career-high 46 tackles, with 16 solo stops. He also had career-highs with two sacks, three tackles for a loss and eight special teams tackles. Harrison was part of a Ravens' defense that was ranked No. 1 against the run in 2024 (80.1 yards per game) and No. 2 in sacks (54) and fourth down efficiency (42.9%).
Harrison appeared in 14 games in 2023, starting eight. He had 17 tackles, 11 of them solo stops, and three special teams tackles. He helped the Ravens' defense achieve leading the league in scoring (16.5), sacks (60) and takeaways (31), the first unit in the NFL to lead all three categories in the same season.
In 2022 he started eight of the 17 games he appeared in, finishing with 27 tackles, including 19 solo stops, and four special teams tackles.
Harrison played in 14 games in 2021, including five starts, and also spent time on the Reserve/Non-Football Injury List. He finished the season with 18 tackles, 11 of them solo stops, and two tackles for a loss. He also blocked a fourth quarter 60-yard field goal attempt against the Cleveland Browns (10/23) to help the Ravens hold onto a 23-20 lead.
In his rookie season he played in 16 games, starting seven. He recorded 36 tackles, 21 of them solo stops, and one tackle for a loss and a pass defense. Harrison started in his first NFL game, recording four solo tackles and a pass defensed in a season-opening win against the Cleveland Browns.
He played college football at Ohio State, just 15 minutes from where he grew up in Walnut Ridge, Ohio. He recorded 205 tackles, 136 solo stops, 29 tackles for a loss, 10 sacks, nine passes defensed, three fumble recoveries and an interception in 52 games, including 28 starts. He was named first-team All-Big Ten by coaches in 2019 and third-team All-American by the Associated Press the same season.
Related:
-->> More on Malik Harrison
-->> How Harrison Fits
Steelers signed free agent linebacker Malik Harrison
Los Angeles Chargers running back J.K. Dobbins (27) is tackled by Baltimore Ravens linebacker Malik Harrison (40) during the first half of an NFL football game Monday, Nov. 25, 2024, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer)
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Malik Harrison (40) celebrates after sacking Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Marcus Mariota during the first half of an NFL preseason football game, Saturday, Aug. 12, 2022, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Malik Harrison (40) looks on during pre-game warm-ups before the NFL divisional round playoff football game against the Houston Texans, Saturday, Jan. 20, 2024, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Malik Harrison (40) watches the quarterback before a snap during an NFL preseason football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Saturday, Aug. 26, 2023, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Peter Joneleit)
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Malik Harrison (40) during an NFL football game against the Las Vegas Raiders, Monday, Sept. 13, 2021, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Malik Harrison (40) defends during the second half of an NFL football game against the New England Patriots, Sunday, Sep. 25, 2022, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Stew Milne)
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Malik Harrison (40) and linebacker Trenton Simpson (23) react after a play during an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Chargers on Monday, November 25, 2024, in Inglewood, Calif. The Ravens defeated the Chargers, 30-23. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Malik Harrison (40) warms up before an NFL football game against the New York Giants Sunday, Dec. 15, 2024, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Malik Harrison (40) in action during the second half of an NFL football game against the Carolina Panthers, Sunday, Nov. 20, 2022, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Malik Harrison (40) celebrates after sacking Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Marcus Mariota during the first half of an NFL preseason football game, Saturday, Aug. 12, 2022, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
Cleveland Browns place kicker Cade York (3) has his field goal attempt blocked by Baltimore Ravens linebacker Malik Harrison (40) in the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 23, 2022, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
Receiver DK Metcalf:
The Steelers acquired receiver DK Metcalf in a trade with the Seattle Seahawks. The Steelers will send the Seahawks their second round pick (52nd overall) and seventh round pick (223rd overall) in the 2025 NFL Draft, and receive the Seahawks sixth-round pick (185th overall) in the 2025 NFL Draft. Metcalf also signed a new five-year contract with the team.
Metcalf was drafted by the Seahawks in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft and spent the last six seasons in Seattle.
In those six seasons, he has appeared in 97 games, starting 93 of them, and has 438 receptions for 6,324 yards, a 14.4-yard average, and 48 touchdowns, which rank eighth-most among active players in the NFL. He has three touchdowns longer than 70 yards, including a career long 84-yard touchdown.
"I'm a physical receiver," said Metcalf. "Big shout-out to my pops (Terrence Metcalf) who was an O-lineman in this league for a little bit, so he instilled that in me, and I just try to play the game a different way, and just God blessed me with the talents and with this opportunity, so I'm not going to take it for granted.
Metcalf has 15 100-yard games, including one against the Steelers in 2023, and a career-high 177 yards receiving against the Philadelphia Eagles in 2020. He also has two 100-yard receiving games in the postseason. He also has three 1,000-yard seasons and has 13 catches of 50 yards or more in his career, which ranks seventh among active receivers..
Metcalf was a second-team Associated Press All-Pro selection in 2020 and a two-time Pro Bowl selection in 2020 and 2023.
For Metcalf, coming to the Steelers is the perfect scenario.
"I felt ecstatic just to hear about the Steelers because I thought the meeting me and Coach (Mike) Tomlin had at the 2019 Combine," said Metcalf. "He just always spoke volumes into me and spoke of my play style in college, and just being in the league and going up to him before or after a game, he kept that same rapport with me, and it just felt like the right decision for me."
In 2024, Metcalf appeared in 15 games, starting 12 of them. He had 66 receptions for 992 yards, a 15-yard average, and five touchdowns.
Metcalf became one of only two players in NFL history, along with Hall of Famer Randy Moss, with 50 receptions, 900 yards and five touchdowns in each of their first six seasons. He also became the first player in Seahawks history with three consecutive 100-yard games, doing so in Weeks 2-4.
He ranks first in Seahawks' history with receptions, receiving yards and receiving touchdowns in his first six seasons and is fourth on the franchise's all-time receiving list.
Metcalf had his third 1,000-yard season in 2023 when he started 16 games, pulling in 66 receptions for 1,114 yards and eight touchdowns, including a 73-yard touchdown, which was Seattle's longest play from scrimmage for the season. His 1,114 yards made him the seventh player in Seahawks history with back-to-back 1,000 yard receiving seasons.
He set a single-season career-high in 2022 when he had 90 receptions, which were fourth-most in Seahawks history. He also turned in his second 1,000-yard season, pulling in 90 receptions for 1,048 yards and six touchdowns.
Metcalf led the Seahawks with 75 receptions in 2021, while adding a team-high 12 touchdowns, which ranked fourth in the NFL and were tied for third-most in a single-season for the Seahawks. He had a career-long 84-yard touchdown against New Orleans, the third-longest reception in team history.
In 2020, Metcalf posted his first 1,000-yard season when he had 83 receptions for a career-high 1,303 yards and 10 touchdowns, while being named second-team AP All-Pro and being selected to the Pro Bowl. The 1,303 receiving yards were a team record, passing Steve Largent who held the previous record of 1,287 yards.
It didn't take Metcalf long to make an impact, with 58 receptions for 900 yards and seven touchdowns in 2019. His 58 receptions were second among all NFL rookie receivers, while his 900 receiving yards were third. Both the receptions and yardage numbers were second all-time in Seahawks' single-season history by a rookie.
Metcalf played college football at Ole Miss, where he started 19 of 21 games played before leaving after his redshirt sophomore year. He had 67 receptions for 1,228 yards and 14 touchdowns.
Related:
-->> More on DK Metcalf
-->> How Metcalf Fits
Steelers acquire DK Metcalf via trade
Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf celebrates his touchdown against the Los Angeles Rams during the first half of an NFL football game Thursday, Oct. 3, 2019, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)
Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf, left, catches a pass for a 40-yard gain as Los Angeles Rams cornerback Derion Kendrick (6) defends during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 4, 2022, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)
Seattle Seahawks' DK Metcalf, left, turns into the end zone on a touchdown catch as Jacksonville Jaguars' Shaquill Griffin defends during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 31, 2021, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Stephen Brashear)
Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf comes off the field during the first half of an NFL football game against the Kansas City Chiefs, Saturday, Dec. 24, 2022 in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)
Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf (14) makes a catch for a touchdown over Cleveland Browns cornerback Justin Hardee Sr., bottom, during the first half of a preseason NFL football game Saturday, Aug. 24, 2024, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)
Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf runs after a catch during an NFL football game against the Las Vegas Raiders Sunday, Nov. 27, 2022, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)
Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Rams, Thursday, Oct. 7, 2021, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Stephen Brashear)
Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf looks on against the Minnesota Vikings during an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 22, 2024, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)
Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf (14) attempts to catch the ball as Washington Commanders cornerback Benjamin St-Juste (25) defends him during an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Nov. 12, 2023 in Seattle. The Seahawks won 29-26. (AP Photo/Ben VanHouten)
FILE - Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf, right, runs to score a touchdown ahead of Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive back Jamel Dean during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 3, 2019, in Seattle. Metcalf didn't disappoint in his rookie season even after sliding in the draft. It's raised the expectations for what many are expecting to be a breakout season for Seattle's second-year wide receiver. (AP Photo/Scott Eklund, File)
Cornerback Darius Slay:
The Steelers signed cornerback Darius Slay to a one-year contract
Slay was originally drafted by the Detroit Lions in the second round of the 2013 NFL Draft, the 36th overall selection. He spent his first seven seasons with the Lions before playing the last five seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles after he was acquired via a trade in 2020.
He was a First-Team Associated Press All-Pro selection in 2017, a six-time Pro Bowl selection (2018, 2019, 2020, 2022, 2023, 2024) and a starter for the Eagles Super Bowl LIX championship team.
"It's a great opportunity here," said Slay. "I talk about Mike T(omlin) a lot. He is a coach I wanted to play for if I got a chance to. And he wins."
Slay has appeared in 177 games, starting 167. He has 614 career tackles, 512 of them solo stops, and 16 tackles for a loss. He has 28 career interceptions, three of them returned for touchdowns including a long of 70 yards, 161 passes defensed, five fumble recoveries, two forced fumbles and one sack.
His 161 passes defensed since 2013 leads all NFL players. He also has four multiple interception games.
And now he is ready to bring it to the Steelers.
"I think physicality when I hear Steelers defense," said Slay. "I am going to fit in wherever needed. Whatever the coaches need me to do, whatever they need me to do in this role, I am here to do it to the best of my ability. Whether that's leading with my play, whatever.
"This organization has been winning championships way before I won one. I just want to be here and be a sponge for guys to learn from."
Slay was a force for the Eagles Super Bowl run in 2024, starting 14 games and finishing the season with 49 tackles, 39 of them solo stops, three tackles for a loss and led the team with 13 passes defensed for the Eagles No. 1 pass defense and No. 1 overall defense.
He had his best season in 2017 in Detroit when he had a career and NFL high 26 passes defensed, while adding a career-high eight interceptions en route to All-Pro honors. He also recorded 60 tackles, 54 of them solo stops.
Slay began his college career at Itawamba Community College in Fulton, Mississippi before attending Mississippi State. He earned All-SEC honors as a senior at Mississippi State in 2012 when he recorded 40 tackles, 26 of them solo stops, with five interceptions, including one he returned for a touchdown.
Related:
-->> More on Darius Slay
-->> How Slay Fits
Steelers signed free agent cornerback Darius Slay
New England Patriots wide receiver Kendrick Bourne, front left, is unable to catch the ball as Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Darius Slay (2) defends in the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 10, 2023, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Mark Stockwell)
Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Darius Slay Jr. (2) defends in the secondary during an NFL football game against the Carolina Panthers, Sunday, Dec. 8, 2024, in Philadelphia, PA. (AP Photo/Peter Joneleit)
Philadelphia Eagles' Darius Slay Jr. in action during an NFL football NFC divisional playoff game against the Los Angeles Rams, Sunday, Jan. 19, 2025, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Derik Hamilton)
Philadelphia Eagles' Darius Slay in action during an NFL football game against the San Francisco 49ers Sunday, Sept. 19, 2021, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
Detroit Lions cornerback Darius Slay (23) pumps up the crowd during the second half of an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, Sept. 24, 2017, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Darius Slay Jr. (2) in action against the Kansas City Chiefs during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl 59 football game, Sunday, Feb. 9, 2025, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Doug Benc)
Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Darius Slay Jr. (2) looking at the loose ball after defending the pass for Washington Commanders wide receiver Luke McCaffrey (12) during the NFL championship playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 26, 2025, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)
Detroit Lions cornerback Darius Slay (23) reacts to a play against the Detroit Lions in the first half of an NFL football game in Detroit, Sunday, Dec. 11, 2016. (AP Photo/Duane Burleson)
Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Darius Slay Jr. (2) intercepts a pass intended for Green Bay Packers wide receiver Dontayvion Wicks (13) during the first half of an NFL wild-card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 12, 2025, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
Philadelphia Eagles' Darius Slay plays during an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 26, 2021, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
Detroit Lions cornerback Darius Slay (23) intercepts a pass intended for Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Adam Thielen (19) in the fourth quarter of an NFL football game in Detroit, Thursday, Nov. 24, 2016. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
