On Monday night, NFL reporter Tom Pelissero posted that the Pittsburgh Steelers had signed starting strong safety DeShon Elliott to a two-year contract extension with a total value of $12.5 million and $9.21 million in guarantees. Technically speaking, the Steelers tore up Elliott’s current contract that had one year remaining and gave him a new three-year deal that includes the 2025 season with a total value of $15.5 million.
Locking up Elliott after a strong 2024 season at this price point is a bargain. Elliott started 14 games last season and finished second on the team with 108 total tackles. The Steelers signed Elliott in the 2024 offseason and he has been a perfect fit since day one. Elliott is an ideal pairing with Minkah Fitzpatrick and had his best season as a pro in 2024.
Elliott and Fitzpatrick provide one of the best all-around safety tandems in the AFC. In addition to Elliott Fitzpatrick, the Steelers have excellent depth with free-agent addition Juan Thornhill, who can back up both spots.