The Pittsburgh Steelers have agreed to a one-year contract with veteran safety Darnell Savage for the 2026 NFL season, according to Tom Pelissero of NFL Media. This move adds an experienced defensive back to the Steelers’ roster as they prepare for the next campaign.
Background on Darnell Savage’s Career
Darnell Savage, 28, was originally selected as a first-round pick by the Green Bay Packers in 2019 after they traded up with the Seattle Seahawks, exchanging their No. 30, No. 114, and No. 118 picks to secure him out of Maryland. Savage completed the four-year rookie contract signed with Green Bay, worth over $12.5 million and featuring a signing bonus of more than $7.1 million.
The Packers exercised his fifth-year option for 2023, guaranteeing nearly $8 million for that season. After his time in Green Bay, Savage joined the Jacksonville Jaguars on a three-year, $21 million contract in 2024 but was released early in the second year after appearing in only a few games. He then signed briefly with the Washington Commanders and was later claimed off waivers by the Buffalo Bills.
Recent Performance and Impact
During the 2025 season, Savage participated in 12 games across three teams—the Jaguars, Commanders, and Bills—accumulating 18 tackles, one forced fumble, and defending three passes. His experience and versatility in the secondary are expected to provide depth for the Steelers in 2026 as they look to strengthen their defense.
Veteran safety Darnell Savage is signing a one-year deal with the Steelers, per source.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 11, 2026
