"The Logo": Steelers Safety DeShon Elliott Shares His Direct Reaction To Huge Contract Extension

The Pittsburgh Steelers agreed to terms on a contract extension with standout safety, DeShon Elliott. The extension is for two more years and is worth up to $12.5 million with $9.21 million in guarantees as reported by Tom Pelissero on X. This comes after Elliott's lone season in Pittsburgh where he was able to rack up over 100 tackles and establish himself as a key piece in Pittsburgh's defense. 

Throughout the 2024 season, Elliott was a strong point for the Steelers in their ability to stop the run. Elliott also allowed fellow safety Minkah Fitzpatrick to be able to play more of a traditional ballhawk role that we are used to seeing him play. Elliott was quick to share his reaction to receiving an extension on his Instagram page. 

"Grateful to the Rooney family, Omar Khan and Coach Tomlin for bringing me to Pittsburgh and giving me a home. Thankful to be extended for two more years to play for the best organization and in front of the best fans in the NFL," Elliott wrote.

These types of quotes from Elliott are what have made him a fan favorite after just one season in Pittsburgh. Elliott has never been shy to share his praise of the Steelers' organization and what they stand for. 

One of his most memorable quotes came in his introductory press conference. When asked what pitch he was given to go from the rival Baltimore Ravens to the Pittsburgh Steelers, Elliott shared a powerful message that won the hearts of fans. 

"The logo," answered Elliott quickly. "This is championship football. This is a culture. This is real smashmouth, real gritty, cold weather game football. Why would you not want to play here? Growing up watching Troy Polamalu play, the Steel Curtain, this is real football, I'm excited to be here."

Not only was Elliott able to win over fans with quotes like these, but his play on the field also shined throughout his first season in Pittsburgh. Not only did he have 108 tackles, four of those being tackles for a loss, but he was able to record six passes defended, three fumble recoveries, as well as nabbing an interception. The Steelers' defense forced 33 turnovers last season which was tied for the best mark in the league with the Minnesota Vikings. The Steelers' defense also ranked second in turnover margin only behind the Buffalo Bills. This impact helped Pittsburgh be one of the league's top defenses yet again last season, and they are set up to be near the top of the league again in 2025. 

Elliott was drafted in the sixth round of the 2018 NFL Draft by the Ravens. He then played shortly for the Detroit Lions and Miami Dolphins before eventually signing with Pittsburgh. This signing has without a doubt been one of the most impactful free agent additions General Manager Omar Khan has made so far during his tenure. 

Are The Steelers Still Able To Extend TJ Watt?

This extension will undoubtedly not be the final player on the defensive side of the ball we see get a new contract before the season begins. The Steelers' all-time sack leader TJ Watt was not present at the team's mandatory minicamp last week, as he continues to wait for a new contract extension himself. It is widely known that Watt is seeking a number close to that of Cleveland Browns edge rusher Myles Garrett, who signed a four-year $160 million extension with Cleveland earlier this offseason.

While there is little to no doubt that a deal eventually gets done between Watt and the Steelers, the amount of money they give him will be interesting to keep an eye on. This extension for Elliott should not affect the eventual contract Watt will receive from Pittsburgh.

What do you think of the Elliott contract extension? Let us know in the comments below!

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