JUST IN: Former Alabama talented cornerback star returns to NFL with Pittsburgh Steelers
Cornerback Anthony Averett, with 51 regular-season appearances and three playoff games over five NFL seasons, participated in the Pittsburgh Steelers’ rookie minicamp as one of 21 tryout players. Despite not playing in any games last season, the former Alabama defensive back stood out and earned a one-year contract with the Steelers. The team confirmed the signing on Sunday, with specific details of the agreement remaining undisclosed.
Anthony Averett, a cornerback with 51 regular-season games and three playoff contests under his belt in five NFL seasons, participated in the Pittsburgh Steelers’ rookie minicamp as one of 21 tryout players. Despite missing the entire 2022 season due to injuries, the former Alabama defensive back believes he still has plenty to offer.
“I had a couple injuries my last two years,” Averett said. “I’m finally fully healthy, and I’m definitely in shape. That’s why I’m here right now. … I got plenty of juice left.”
After being released by the Detroit Lions from their practice squad in November 2023, Averett remained a free agent until the Steelers signed him to a one-year contract on Sunday, with the specific terms undisclosed.
Averett entered the NFL as a fourth-round pick of the Baltimore Ravens in 2018. He spent his first three seasons primarily as a reserve, but in 2021, he started 14 games for the Ravens, recording three interceptions. This performance earned him a one-year, $4 million contract with the Las Vegas Raiders in free agency.
However, Averett’s 2022 season was plagued by injuries. He broke his thumb in the season opener and missed several games. After returning, he started at cornerback and free safety before sustaining a broken toe in Week 8, which sidelined him for the remainder of the year.
Averett spent time with the San Francisco 49ers and Detroit Lions in 2023 but did not play in any games. Now, he joins a Steelers team thin at cornerback, with second-round pick Joey Porter Jr. and trade acquisition Donte Jackson expected to start. Averett’s NFL experience surpasses that of all the other cornerbacks on Pittsburgh’s roster combined.
