Participant: CB Brandin Echols
Inventory Worth: Up
Reasoning: A 2019 free-agent signing, Brandin Echols is making an attempt to earn his means not simply onto particular groups, however the protection. Within the two practices earlier than an off day, the veteran defensive again made some huge performs. If he retains exhibiting up, he’ll doubtless earn some nickel and dime snaps when the common season begins.
Following the commerce for Jalen Ramsey, the trail to enjoying time for Brandin Echols grew extra sophisticated. Previous to that transfer, he would have been in competitors to begin within the slot. Now, in all probability, Ramsey will spend most of his time there.
In some packages, or with some matchups, nevertheless, the Steelers may make use of any individual else. Brandin Echols might be that any individual else, if the final two practices are truthful to go by. Incomes reward from Mike Tomlin for 2 days in a row, he confirmed he could make performs on the ball.
Going through a uncommon deep move on Saturday, Echols chased down a ball supposed for Roman Wilson and compelled an incompletion. Throughout yesterday’s outing, he nabbed an interception, demonstrating some ball expertise. Contemplating the Steelers are a crew that fingers out shirts whenever you get one, I’m certain that was a welcome sight.
Brandin Echols does have 5 interceptions in 1,379 defensive snaps throughout his profession, plus 16 passes defensed. Having spent his whole profession with the Jets over 4 years, he has seen his position shift. Final season, he solely performed 407 snaps, however nonetheless managed two interceptions.
Equally vital, Echols averages round 200 particular groups snaps per season. The Steelers signed him to a two-year, $6 million contract, of which over $1.8 comes as a signing bonus. Together with the bonus, he’ll internet a complete of $3 million in 2025 with a $3 million base wage for 2026.
And whereas he’s right here, they actually count on him to contribute on particular groups. Relying on how the remainder of the secondary shakes out, Brandin Echols might dislodge James Pierre from the roster. Not solely can he play Pierre’s gunner position, he additionally has extra upside as a defensive contributor.
With coaching camp underway and the Steelers exploring their new roster, it’s as soon as once more time to “take inventory”. It took some time, however we lastly noticed a few of that change the crew talked about after the season ended. Definitely, the transfer to commerce for WR DK Metcalf qualifies as a change, to not point out the accompanying contract. Oh, and so they additionally traded some man named George Pickens, which individuals discovered vital.
As we converse, we’re within the means of studying what this Steelers crew goes to appear to be. The mud is settled on each free company and the 2025 NFL Draft, and now we’re in camp. What different strikes may the crew make, maybe surprising acquisitions or departures? They’ve actually made a flurry of strikes, although some query whether or not they make a lot distinction. It is a Steelers crew ravenous for postseason success, however how determined are they for a playoff win in 2025?
