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Steelers Bring Back Patrick Peterson as Backup Cornerback, Adding Veteran Depth

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Steelers release CB Patrick Peterson, WR Allen Robinson II in cost-cutting moves | Archives | dailygazette.com

Pittsburgh, March 13, 2025 – The Pittsburgh Steelers are turning to a familiar face to shore up their secondary, signing veteran cornerback Patrick Peterson to a one-year deal to serve as a backup, according to team sources. The move reunites the eight-time Pro Bowler with the organization he called home in 2023, offering Pittsburgh a seasoned insurance policy as they gear up for the 2025 season.

Peterson, now 34, returns to the Steelers after being released by the team in March 2024—a cap-saving move that cleared $6.85 million but left fans wistful for the versatility he brought to Mike Tomlin’s defense. His lone season in Pittsburgh saw him play all 17 games (16 starts), tallying 42 tackles, two interceptions, and 11 pass breakups while splitting time between cornerback and safety. After a year on the free-agent market, Peterson’s latest deal—reportedly worth $3 million with incentives—casts him in a supporting role behind starters Joey Porter Jr. and Donte Jackson.

The signing comes as the Steelers aim to bolster depth in a secondary that’s faced its share of injury woes. With Corey Trice Jr. and Darius Rush still developing, and free agency departures like Levi Wallace leaving gaps, Peterson’s experience offers a safety net. His 2023 stint showcased his adaptability, logging 844 snaps at CB and 225 at safety—a flexibility Tomlin praised on X last season: “Peterson’s a baller who can do it all.” That Swiss Army knife quality could prove vital if injuries strike again.

Peterson’s return aligns with Pittsburgh’s recent roster tweaks, including T.J. Watt’s contract restructure (freeing up $12-13 million) and the addition of RB Kenneth Gainwell. While not the splashy acquisition some hoped for, it’s a pragmatic play by GM Omar Khan, who’s balancing cap space with playoff aspirations. At 34, Peterson’s days as an every-down CB may be behind him—his 91.5 passer rating against in 2023 hinted at a step lost—but his football IQ and mentorship value remain undeniable, especially for young guns like Porter Jr.

For Peterson, the move fulfills a desire he voiced on NFL Network last March: “I’d love to be back in Pittsburgh—the door’s still open.” Now, that door has swung wide, offering the three-time All-Pro a chance to chase that elusive Super Bowl ring in a backup capacity. As the Steelers eye a deep AFC North run, Patrick Peterson’s steady hand could be the unsung boost they need.

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