Pittsburgh Steelers Sign Tre Flowers Amid Cornerback Injuries

On December 25, 2025, the Pittsburgh Steelers announced the signing of veteran cornerback Tre Flowers to their 53-man active roster. This move comes as the team faces significant injury challenges in their secondary, particularly with cornerbacks Brandin Echols and James Pierre. Echols is dealing with a groin injury, while Pierre has been sidelined with a calf injury, prompting the Steelers to bolster their depth ahead of their crucial Week 17 matchup against the Cleveland Browns.

The Sporting NewsSteelers sign veteran cornerback ahead of Week 17 matchup vs. BrownsSteelers Sign 6-foot-3 Veteran CornerbackSteelers add veteran cornerback to the 53-man roster before Week 17ReutersSports IllustratedSteelers Sign CB Tre Flowers To 53 Man RosterPittsburgh Steelers sign CB Tre Flowers to active roster

Tre Flowers, 30, began his NFL career when the Seattle Seahawks selected him in the fifth round of the 2018 NFL Draft. Over his seven-season career, he has played for multiple teams, including the Cincinnati Bengals, Atlanta Falcons, Jacksonville Jaguars, Indianapolis Colts, and most recently, the Detroit Lions. Flowers has appeared in 97 games, starting 44, and has recorded 287 tackles, four interceptions, five forced fumbles, and five fumble recoveries. His experience includes a notable stint with the Seahawks, where he played from 2018 to 2021, and he has also contributed on special teams.

Ann Arbor NewsReutersPittsburgh Steelers sign CB Tre Flowers to active rosterNBC SportsSteelers Sign 6-foot-3 Veteran CornerbackThe Patriot-NewsSteelers sign veteran cornerback ahead of Week 17 matchup vs. BrownsSteelers add veteran cornerback to the 53-man roster before Week 17

Flowers' signing fills the roster spot vacated by wide receiver DK Metcalf, who is serving a two-game suspension following an incident during a game against the Detroit Lions. The Steelers' decision to add Flowers reflects their need for depth in the cornerback position, especially with the playoffs approaching. The team is currently in a position to clinch the AFC North with a victory over the Browns or a loss by the Baltimore Ravens.

NBC Sports

The Steelers' management expressed confidence in Flowers' ability to contribute immediately, particularly as a potential replacement for Echols on special teams. The team noted that Flowers' size and experience align with their defensive needs, especially against formidable opponents like the Browns and Ravens.

Steelers Sign CB Tre Flowers To 53 Man Roster

While the Steelers' signing of Flowers has been met with general approval, some analysts have questioned the decision given his limited impact during his brief tenure with the Lions, where he played only two games without recording any statistics. Critics argue that the Steelers could have explored other options to address their cornerback depth.

The Sporting News

As the Steelers prepare for their pivotal game against the Cleveland Browns, Flowers may see significant playing time, especially if Echols is unable to recover in time. The outcome of this game is critical, as it could determine the Steelers' playoff positioning.

Steelers Sign 6-foot-3 Veteran Cornerback

• “We have signed CB Tre Flowers to the Active Roster.” — Pittsburgh Steelers Official Announcement

Sports Illustrated

• “Metcalf is down for the rest of the regular season, but Flowers will help fill some of the depth voids the team has at cornerback.” — Analysis on Flowers' signing

The Patriot-News

The addition of Tre Flowers to the Steelers' roster underscores the team's proactive approach to managing injuries and preparing for the postseason.

Steelers add veteran cornerback to the 53-man roster before Week 17