BREAKING: PITTSBURGH STEELERS SIGN VETERAN CORNERBACK  TO BOLSTER SECONDARY AHEAD OF TRAINING CAMP…READ MORE…..

In a decisive move to strengthen their secondary ahead of the 2025 NFL season, the Pittsburgh Steelers have signed veteran cornerback Chidobe Awuzie to a one-year deal, the team officially announced Wednesday morning. The deal is reportedly worth $6.5 million, with incentives that could push the total value to $8 million.

Awuzie, 29, brings experience, versatility, and physicality to a Steelers defense that is reloading for another run at the playoffs. The former Cincinnati Bengals and Dallas Cowboys defensive back has played in over 85 career games and is known for his sound coverage skills, ball awareness, and strong tackling ability.

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin praised the signing, saying:

> “Chidobe is a smart, tough, veteran presence. He’s battle-tested, and he knows what it takes to compete at a high level. He’s going to fit right into the culture we’re building here.”

Awuzie spent the 2023 and 2024 seasons with the Bengals, where he started 25 games and served as a leader in the locker room. While injuries slowed him slightly in 2023, he bounced back with a solid campaign last year, recording 58 tackles, 2 interceptions, and 11 pass deflections.

The Steelers’ cornerback group has talent in rising stars like Joey Porter Jr., but lacked experience and depth—a gap Awuzie is expected to fill immediately. His ability to play both outside and in the slot gives defensive coordinator Teryl Austin flexibility with coverage schemes.

Awuzie also brings playoff experience, having helped Cincinnati to the Super Bowl in the 2021 season. He emphasized his excitement about joining a franchise with Pittsburgh’s championship pedigree.

> “I’ve always admired the Steelers from afar—the defense, the culture, the city,” Awuzie said in his introductory press conference. “When this opportunity came up, it just felt right. I’m here to win and to help this team in any way I can.”

This signing marks another smart veteran addition by the Steelers’ front office, led by GM Omar Khan, who has shown a strong commitment to building a well-rounded roster without overspending. Pittsburgh’s offseason focus has clearly been on defense—having previously retained key players and now adding an experienced corner like Awuzie.

The Steelers will head into training camp with renewed hope and a clearer identity on defense. With stars like T.J. Watt, Minkah Fitzpatrick, and now Chidobe Awuzie anchoring the unit, Pittsburgh has the pieces in place to once again be one of the AFC’s most feared defenses.