The Pittsburgh Steelers are signing former New York Jets cornerback Brandin Echols, according to FOX Sports NFL insider Jordan Schuktz. Echols had recorded five interceptions, 16 passes defended and two pick-sixes during his four-year tenure in New York.
Echols, who played his college ball at Kentucky, was a sixth-round draft pick by the Jets in 2021. Echols played in 57 games and started 19 during his time with the Jets. Thirteen of those starts came in his rookie year.
Echols started the first nine games of his rookie year before suffering a thigh injury in Week 10. In 2022, Echols played in 13 games for the Jets, tallying eight total tackles. He recorded no starts in 2022 after being a starter in 2021.
On May 25, 2023, Echols was suspended one game by the NFL for violating the league’s personal conduct policy. The suspension stemmed from a 2022 high-speed car crash Echols was involved in.
Echols was involved in a two-car crash in Florham Park, New Jersey that resulted in the partial paralyzation of the other driver. Echols had been traveling 84 mph in a 50 mph zone before making contact with the other vehicle.
In January 2023, Echols was charged with fourth-degree assault by auto, and was summoned for reckless driving, speeding, failure to wear a seat belt, an unsafe lane change, and improper passing.
Echols received just one start in 2023, recording 11 tackles and two passes defended. In 2024, he started four games for the Jets, registering two interceptions, three passes defended and a force fumble.
Along with Echols, the Steelers have also agreed to terms with All-Pro cornerback Darius Slay. Slay provides a much-needed upgrade in the Steelers secondary, as outside cornerback Donte Jackson and slot cornerback Cam Sutton struggled immensely down the stretch last season.
Echols is a versatile corner who can play on the outside and in the slot. He’s also a solid special teams player.
Jackson signed with the Chargers in free agency, while it’s unlikely that Sutton will be back, especially after the signing of Echols. Echols and Beanie Bishop will compete for the starting slot position.