Steelers Projected to Sign Super Bowl Champion in Free Agency

The Pittsburgh Steelers are expected to add a key defensive piece from the Kansas City Chiefs' roster.

Mar. 9, 2026 at 12:22am

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According to NFL analysts, the Pittsburgh Steelers are projected to sign safety Bryan Cook, a Super Bowl champion from the Kansas City Chiefs, in the upcoming free agency period. Cook is described as a consistent and solid defensive back who could help bolster the Steelers' secondary as they aim to return to the Super Bowl.

Why it matters

The Steelers are looking to build a championship-caliber roster around veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who they hope to re-sign. Adding a proven defensive playmaker like Cook from the reigning Super Bowl champions could be a key move to strengthen their team and make a deep playoff run.

The details

NFL analyst Greg Auman projects the Steelers will sign Cook, who has been a reliable starter for the Chiefs over the past four seasons. While he may not have flashy stats, Cook is known for his solid coverage skills and consistency. With the Chiefs facing salary cap constraints, they may not be able to retain Cook, opening the door for the Steelers to add him in free agency.

  • The NFL free agency period begins on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.
  • The Steelers are expected to make their first official moves to reshape their roster during this free agency period.

The players

Bryan Cook

A 26-year-old safety who has spent the last four seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs, winning a Super Bowl championship. He is described as a consistent and solid defensive back with reliable coverage skills.

Aaron Rodgers

The veteran quarterback the Steelers are hoping to re-sign as their franchise QB for the 2026-27 season.

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What they’re saying

“He has three interceptions in four seasons in Kansas City, one sack and zero forced fumbles, but he's solid and consistent enough as a defender to be Pro Football Focus' No. 5 safety in 2025.”

— Greg Auman, NFL Analyst

“Another graduate of the Steve Spagnuolo Academy, Cook hits the market at 26 and with high-level playoff experience on his résumé. After he had 85 tackles for them last season, the Chiefs will try to keep him but might not offer enough.”

— Dan Graziano, NFL Analyst

What’s next

The Steelers will have to negotiate a contract with Bryan Cook once the free agency period opens on March 11, 2026, in order to add him to their roster for the upcoming season.

The takeaway

The Steelers' pursuit of Bryan Cook, a proven defensive back from the reigning Super Bowl champions, demonstrates their commitment to building a championship-caliber roster around veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers. This move could be a key piece in the Steelers' quest to return to the Super Bowl.