Pittsburgh, PA – July 12, 2025
The Pittsburgh Steelers have cut a recent free-agent signing, sources told ESPN. The move, made before training camp, reflects a crowded secondary and strategic roster shift, per Steelers Depot.
The cornerback, signed to bolster depth, was released despite a lucrative deal. His exit underscores Pittsburgh’s stacked defensive backfield, per Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Brandin Echols, inked for $6 million over two years, was cut Friday. The former Jets corner recorded 5 interceptions in four seasons, per Pro-Football-Reference.com.
Pittsburgh’s secondary, led by Jalen Ramsey, Darius Slay, and Joey Porter Jr., left no room. Echols struggled to secure a spot, per NFL.com.
“Echols didn’t fit our mix,” a source said, per The Athletic. Beanie Bishop Jr., James Pierre, and Cory Trice Jr. edged him out for backup roles.
Despite guaranteed money, Echols’ release saves $2 million in cap space, per Spotrac. Pittsburgh’s $45 million cap fuels their Super Bowl LX chase.
Mike Tomlin remained focused: “We prioritize fit,” per Steelers.com. Echols now seeks a new team, with the Jets and Dolphins interested, per ESPN.
As training camp opens July 24, Pittsburgh’s defense, ranked sixth, eyes glory. Can the Steelers’ revamped secondary shine? Stay tuned to ESPN.
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/72111264/1446521214.0.jpg "Former Steelers Safety Fan Favorite Cut by Chargers Sends Emotional Plea to Rejoin Pittsburgh")
