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Steelers Sign Former Jaguars First-Round Pick To Their Practice Squad, Per Source

Darnell Savage Jr. on X: "💛💚" / X

Pittsburgh, Pa. — Sept. 20, 2025. The Pittsburgh Steelers are signing veteran safety Darnell Savage to their practice squad pending a physical, according to a league source with direct knowledge of the agreement. The move has not appeared on the NFL’s daily transaction wire, and the club has not announced it publicly. The source requested anonymity because the deal is not yet official.

A 2019 first-round pick, Savage spent five seasons with Green Bay before departing in 2024. He joined Jacksonville last year, logging starter snaps in the secondary and contributing on special teams before his release earlier this week. A move to Pittsburgh offers a fresh opportunity for a versatile defensive back whose range and closing speed fit the league’s trend toward multi-role safeties.

In a brief statement, Savage underscored his mindset about the change:
“THE JAGUARS GAVE UP ON ME, BUT THE STEELERS SAW MY VALUE RIGHT AWAY. THAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A TEAM THAT DOUBTS YOU AND A TEAM THAT BUILDS LEGENDS. TODAY I’M PROUD TO WEAR THE BLACK AND GOLD.”

For the Steelers, a practice-squad agreement provides cost-controlled depth and flexibility as the secondary navigates early-season injuries and matchup-specific plans. Under standard rules, a veteran on the practice squad can be elevated up to three times to the active roster for game day without immediately requiring a full 53-man contract. If Savage practices well, a promotion becomes a straightforward next step; if not, Pittsburgh retains roster and cap agility.

Savage is expected to complete his physical and finalize paperwork in the coming days. Any corresponding transaction to open a practice-squad slot would be announced once the deal is official.

Amid NFL Community's Criticism of Bad Bunny as a Mistake in the Super Bowl - Steelers Legend HOF Strong Reaction Leaves Fans Speechless
Pittsburgh, PA - October 5, 2025 The American football world is buzzing after a segment of the NFL community labeled the invitation of global superstar Bad Bunny to perform at the Super Bowl Halftime Show as a "mistake." The backlash spread rapidly, with critics arguing that the world's biggest sporting event should spotlight artists rooted in traditional football culture. But no one saw it coming when one of the Pittsburgh Steelers' all-time greatest legends—James Harrison, the Hall of Fame linebacker with 5 Pro Bowls and the fearsome heart of the Steel Curtain—stepped up to shut down the noise. His response left fans stunned and inspired. In a candid media sideline chat, Harrison passionately backed Bad Bunny: "Bad Bunny headlining the Super Bowl? That says it all—he's not just a singer; he's a cultural force. The Super Bowl isn't only about gridiron glory; it's a worldwide spectacle where music and sports collide to make history. If the NFL picked Bad Bunny, it's because he's earned the right to own that stage." The no-nonsense words from the Steelers icon, who anchored Pittsburgh's defenses for 15 seasons and remains a fan favorite for his relentless intensity and that iconic Super Bowl pick-six swagger, ignited social media. Even initial detractors conceded: Harrison's take made sense. The Halftime Show isn't just for the stadium crowd—it's crafted for hundreds of millions tuning in globally. Bad Bunny, the unrivaled king of Latin music, commands a fanbase that transcends sports. His inclusion could rocket the NFL's reach into untapped markets. When a Steelers legend like Harrison—adored for his heart, hustle, and that signature bearded ferocity—vouches for it, it's more than artist support; it's a nod to the NFL's bold push for global relevance. Harrison's stand is flipping the script on public sentiment. Once again, this Steelers great reminds us: His voice still packs a punch, long after the final whistle. #SteelersLegend #BadBunny #SuperBowlHalftime #NFLGlobal