2025 Steelers Camp Preview - What Role Will James Pierre Play In 2025?

At one time, undrafted cornerback James Pierre was regarded as a potential starter in the Pittsburgh Steelers' secondary.

Following a promising performance in the Steelers’ 2020 playoff loss to the Cleveland Browns, the former Florida Atlantic University standout entered the 2021 season with aspirations of becoming a regular starter on the defense. That trajectory appeared likely after his game-sealing interception against the Denver Broncos in October of that year. However, a series of underwhelming performances soon followed, as opposing offenses began to exploit his weaknesses. Ultimately, Pierre was benched in favor of then-cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon.

Since that season, James Pierre has largely become an afterthought in the Steelers' secondary. He eventually signed with the Washington Commanders in March of last year, only to be released and later re-signed to the team's practice squad in September.

While Pierre hasn’t seen significant snaps on defense, he has emerged as a valuable contributor on special teams. In 2024, he recorded 10 special teams tackles, along with an interception and three pass deflections across 15 regular-season games.

Though no longer a regular starter, Pierre has carved out a meaningful role that adds more value to the team than many initially expected. When called upon, he provides reliable depth at cornerback—a position the Steelers will undoubtedly need reinforcement in as the season progresses. For Pierre, staying healthy will be key to maintaining his spot on the roster.