Pittsburgh, PA – July 13, 2025
Not every move across the AFC North rivalry is met with open arms—especially when a player once drafted by the Baltimore Ravens puts on the legendary black and gold of the Pittsburgh Steelers. But DeShon Elliott hasn’t just survived the pressure of his past—he’s turned every doubter’s word into fuel for a breakout year, culminating in a well-deserved new deal.
Elliott joined the Steelers on a two-year, $6 million contract in the 2024 offseason after an impressive season with the Miami Dolphins. The move instantly set off a wave of criticism and “traitor” labels from Baltimore fans and even Ravens management. Elliott himself never shied away from the narrative:
"When I joined the Steelers, Ravens fans and management called me a traitor. I heard it all. But every word only fueled my determination, and what I’ve shown here speaks for itself."
From the moment he arrived in Pittsburgh, Elliott quickly earned the trust of coaches and teammates. He injected energy into the locker room, brought stability to the Steelers’ secondary with hard-hitting tackles and vocal leadership, and elevated the unit’s intensity on every snap. His professionalism, resilience, and ability to rise above outside noise made him one of the team’s most valuable additions of 2024.
Within just a season, Elliott has silenced critics—not just in Baltimore, but across the league. His play and presence have now been rewarded: The Pittsburgh Steelers and DeShon Elliott have agreed to a two-year, $12.5 million extension with $9.21 million guaranteed, a source confirmed to ESPN. It’s more than a financial reward; it’s a testament to the impact Elliott has had on and off the field.
In the unforgiving landscape of the AFC North, where loyalty and toughness are always tested, Elliott’s journey stands out. From ex-Raven once branded a “traitor,” DeShon Elliott has become a symbol of grit, redemption, and relentless drive in Steel City.
