The Pittsburgh Steelers have been one of the most active teams in the AFC during the 2025 NFL offseason, making a series of strategic decisions aimed at building a competitive roster to return to contender status. Under the leadership of Mike Tomlin, the franchise signed quarterback Aaron Rodgers and has now secured another key piece.
The Steelers made headlines this summer by signing Rodgers, who was recently released by the New York Jets, to a one-year deal worth $13.65 million guaranteed, with the potential to reach $19.5 million through incentives. The rebuild is starting to feel real.
However, building a strong team isn’t only about adding new stars like Rodgers or DK Metcalf. For Tomlin and the Steelers, it’s just as important to retain key contributors from a roster that showed solid performance last season, despite falling short in the postseason.
Which player is staying with the Steelers?
Pittsburgh has announced it has extended the contract of safety DeShon Elliott, who agreed to a two-year, $12.5 million extension, including $9.21 million guaranteed. Rodgers’ new teammate will remain with the Steelers through the 2027 season.
Aaron Rodgers #8 of the Pittsburgh Pirates in action during Minicamp at UPMC Rooney Sports Complex on June 10, 2025 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Elliott is coming off his best year with Pittsburgh in 2024, where he recorded 108 tackles, six passes defended, three fumble recoveries, and two forced fumbles over 15 games (14 starts), establishing himself as a key piece in Tomlin’s defense.
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NFL News: The man behind the scenes who brought Aaron Rodgers to the Steelers
Steelers add stability to their defensive backfield
Elliott’s extension brings stability to the Steelers’ secondary, which already includes the consistent presence of Minkah Fitzpatrick. At the same time, the Pittsburgh franchise added veteran safety Juan Thornhill, a Super Bowl champion, using their cap space to build depth across the unit.
