Two Steelers UDFAs Poised to Make 2025 Roster After Rookie Minicamp

Pittsburgh, PA – May 4, 2025 – The Pittsburgh Steelers’ rookie minicamp spotlighted two undrafted free agents (UDFAs), Sebastian Castro and J.J. Galbreath, who have secured spots on the 2025 53-man roster. With a thin safety depth chart and a need for a versatile tight end, Castro’s playmaking and Galbreath’s athleticism have cemented their roles in a defense and offense primed for an AFC North title push, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

Sebastian Castro, a 23-year-old safety from Iowa, fills a critical gap in the secondary. At 5’11” and 203 pounds, he started 36 games for the Hawkeyes, earning 2023 All-America honors with 163 tackles, 4 interceptions, and 5 forced fumbles. His 75.6 PFF grade and hybrid “Cash” role—blending slot corner and linebacker duties—shone at minicamp, where he disrupted passing drills and excelled in run support. “Castro’s a Steeler through and through,” GM Omar Khan told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. “He’s ready to back up Minkah Fitzpatrick.”

J.J. Galbreath, a 23-year-old tight end from South Dakota, brings dynamic potential to the offense. At 6’3” and 231 pounds, he recorded 93 catches for 1,355 yards and 12 touchdowns in college, despite a 2024 shoulder injury. His 4.67-second 40-yard dash and 82.3 PFF receiving grade impressed at minicamp, with crisp routes and strong blocking. “J.J.’s a mismatch weapon,” coach Mike Tomlin said. He’ll support Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington while contributing on special teams.

With $32 million in cap space and only seven draft picks, the Steelers leaned on UDFAs to address roster gaps. Castro bolsters a secondary reliant on aging DeShon Elliott, while Galbreath adds depth behind MyCole Pruitt’s departure. “They’re high-character finds,” NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah said. “Both embody Pittsburgh’s gritty identity.”

Castro and Galbreath outpaced UDFAs like Roc Taylor and DJ Thomas-Jones, capitalizing on their college production and minicamp dominance. Facing a brutal AFC North with Joe Burrow and Lamar Jackson, their versatility and special teams prowess make them ready to follow the path of Steelers UDFA legends like Jaylen Warren and Beanie Bishop Jr.