Steelers Sign Justin Layne, Last of 2019 Draft Picks to Ink Contract

PITTSBURGH — The Steelers have signed cornerback Justin Layne to a four-year contract, the team announced on Thursday. Layne was the last of the nine players the Steelers selected in the 2019 NFL Draft to sign his contract, the financial terms of which were not disclosed.

Layne, 21, went to the Steelers with the 83rd overall pick in the third round after spending three seasons at Michigan State.

Originally recruited by the Spartans as a wide receiver, he played in 24 games at corner over his final two seasons, making 112 tackles, 23 passes defended and grabbing two interception.

The 6-foot-2, 192-pound defensive back was named second-team All-Big Ten in 2018 and was given a second-round grade by NFL.com draft analyst Lance Zierlein.

Even though he had yet to officially sign his contract, Layne has been participating in OTAs with the Steelers over the last two weeks. He said on Thursday that he’s gotten adjusted to the NFL after being a bit star-struck on his first few days.

“It was crazy at first, but at the same time, we have to get out here and work,” he said. “We’re just working now. They’re just regular people, now, just like back in college.”

Layne said he’s been working outside, behind returning starter Joe Haden and free agent singing Steve Nelson.