Steelers Sign Veteran Safety Quindell Johnson, Release Joshua Bledsoe Amid DB Competition
The Pittsburgh Steelers made a subtle yet notable move to reshape their secondary on Wednesday, signing veteran safety Quindell Johnson while releasing defensive back Joshua Bledsoe.
As the team continues to evaluate its depth ahead of training camp, these transactions reflect the constant churn at the bottom of the roster in preparation for the 2025 NFL season.
Johnson, 24, brings versatility and special teams value to the Steelers’ secondary. Though he’s yet to carve out a long-term role with an NFL team, he’s had stints with the Los Angeles Rams, Chicago Bears, and San Francisco 49ers since entering the league.
Johnson was originally signed as an undrafted free agent out of Memphis in 2023, where he stood out for his instincts and physicality, finishing his college career with 320 tackles, 24 pass deflections, and 10 interceptions.
In a corresponding move, the Steelers released Joshua Bledsoe, who has struggled to stick on an NFL roster since being drafted by the New England Patriots in the sixth round of the 2021 NFL Draft. Bledsoe, a Missouri product, has appeared in just four regular-season games — all with New England — and has not played in a game since 2023.
Despite showing flashes in college with 18 pass breakups and a lone interception over four years, Bledsoe has been unable to translate that production to the professional level.
Johnson’s addition comes at a time when Pittsburgh’s secondary remains one of the most competitive position groups on the roster. Behind established starters like Minkah Fitzpatrick, several players are jostling for roles on special teams and in sub-packages.
Among those competing are Donte Kent, a speedy seventh-round pick out of Central Michigan, who impressed scouts with his athleticism and upside despite being a late-round selection. Sebastian Castro, an undrafted free agent out of Iowa, is another intriguing name.
Known for his physical playing style and versatility at Iowa’s “Cash” position, Castro has the kind of traits that often catch coaches’ eyes in camp.
Veteran James Pierre, who has played significant snaps for the Steelers in past seasons, is also in the mix as a proven depth option.
As training camp nears, the Steelers’ defensive back room remains fluid. The signing of Johnson adds experience and competition, while Bledsoe’s release highlights the difficult decisions teams must make as they fine-tune their rosters ahead of the preseason.