Steelers Bolster Safety Depth with Practice Squad Addition
The Pittsburgh Steelers are signing safety Juanyeh Thomas to their practice squad, according to a report from ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, which was later confirmed by sources speaking to PennLive. Thomas was released by the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday, the same day the Steelers finalized their initial 53-man roster.
The move comes as the Steelers look to solidify their safety room. Starter DeShon Elliott was placed on injured reserve after sustaining a major knee injury a year ago and continues his recovery. With Elliott unavailable, veteran Rayshawn Jenkins is expected to start alongside Jaquan Brisker, as reported by PennLive. The team also has Jalen Ramsey, the starting nickel cornerback, who can play both slot and free safety, while rookie Robert Spears-Jennings has been used in various spots on defense.
Thomas, who played under head coach Mike McCarthy with the Dallas Cowboys from 2022 to 2024, will serve as the fourth safety on the depth chart, despite being on the practice squad. Over his career, Thomas has appeared in 36 games, recording 62 total tackles and one interception. He also brings special teams experience, which could prove valuable for Pittsburgh.
Roster Moves and Practice Squad Plans
The Steelers set their initial 53-man roster on Sunday, but as Heavy. reported, not all of those players will necessarily remain when the season begins in less than two weeks. Many of the players signed over the weekend may return to the practice squad, and the team is likely to add players from other teams as well.
According to , the Steelers did not claim any players off waivers on Monday. Claiming a player off waivers would have required a corresponding roster move, as the player would have to be added to the 53-man roster rather than the practice squad. As of now, everyone who made the 53-man roster on Sunday evening still holds a spot, the same report noted.
Thomas signed a one-year, $1.3 million deal with the Colts in March but failed to make their final roster. He spent his entire rookie contract with the Cowboys before departing. His addition to the Steelers' practice squad gives the team an experienced option who can step up when needed, particularly on special teams.
Perspective: Team Need for Safety Depth
From the team's standpoint, the signing addresses a clear need for depth at safety following Elliott's injury. As PennLive put it, the Steelers 'badly need' depth at the position. Thomas's experience with McCarthy in Dallas provides a level of familiarity with the coaching staff, which could ease his transition. With Elliott on injured reserve, the Steelers are relying on a mix of veterans and rookies at safety, and Thomas adds another capable body to that group.