The Pittsburgh Steelers have signed cornerback Brandin Echols to a two-year contract. Echols, who was initially drafted by the New York Jets in the sixth round of the 2021 NFL Draft, spent four seasons with the team. During his time with the Jets, he appeared in 57 games and started 19.
Echols has accumulated a total of 113 career tackles, including 88 solo stops. He also recorded three tackles for a loss, five interceptions—two of which were returned for touchdowns—one fumble recovery, and defended 16 passes.
“I bring grit, I am hungry, I am ready to play,” said Echols about joining the Steelers. “I have a chip on my shoulder that I feel like I need to show the world who I really am. I feel like Pittsburgh is the perfect place to do that.”
Reflecting on his journey so far, Echols stated: “I have always had that chip. I feel like I have always been underappreciated. Back in my younger days people didn’t look at me as one of the top athletes. Wanting to be included in that conversation is what gives me the chip.”
In his most recent season in 2024, Echols played in 16 games and started four. He concluded the season with 36 tackles (28 solo), two interceptions, three passes defensed, a fumble recovery, and four special teams tackles. Notably, he achieved a career-high of 10 tackles against the Miami Dolphins during Week 14.
“Speed, play-making ability, tackling when needed,” said Echols about his contributions to defense. “I can bring it all. I am just ready to ball.”
In previous seasons with the Jets, Echols participated in various capacities: playing in 14 games with one start in 2023; appearing in 13 games with five tackles and two passes defensed in 2022; and starting as a rookie for most of his first season despite missing some games due to injury.
Special teams are an area where Echols feels particularly passionate: “I take pride in special teams,” he expressed.
Before entering professional football, Echols played college football at Kentucky where he made significant contributions over two years.
